William Slater, also known as Billy Slater, is a highly accomplished and experienced Australian former professional rugby league footballer who played in the 2000s and 2010s.
In addition to his successful playing career, Slater is also the current coach of the Queensland Maroons. Under his leadership, the Maroons won consecutive victories in the 2022 and 2023 interstate origin series.
His expertise and strategic approach make him a highly sought after coach within the rugby league community.
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- Full name: William Slater
- Stage name: Billy Slater
- Date of Birth: June 18, 1983
- Age: 40
- Birthplace: Nambour, Australia
- Nationality: Australian
- Occupation: Former Australian professional rugby league football player
- Height: 1.78 m
- Parents: Ron Slater and Judy Slater
- Siblings: Unknown
- Spouse: Nicole Slater (m. 2009)
- Children: Jack Slater and Tyra Rose Slater
- Relationship: Married
- Net worth: $18 million (£13.8 million)
Early life and education
William Slater, popularly known as Billy Slater, was born in Nambour, Australia on 18 June 1983. He was raised by his parents, Ron Slater and Judy Slater, and grew up with some siblings who are unknown to the public.
Despite attending Innisfail State High School, Slater dropped out to pursue his passion for thoroughbred racing. He began his career in Sydney as a handyman for six months for renowned racehorse trainer Guy Waterhouse.
Profession
William Slater, also known as Billy Slater, had a storied career in rugby. He played his entire NRL career with the Melbourne Storm, so he only played for one club.
He was also known as the “Big Three” along with Cameron Smith and Cooper Cronk, forming one of the most powerful trios in NRL history.
Although Billy was disqualified from two NRL grand finals due to salary cap violations, he still played in a total of seven grand finals with the Storm, winning four of them.
Billy Slater revolutionised the role of the modern rugby league halfback. He was renowned for his blistering pace, outstanding technique and tenacity on the pitch.
During his career he won numerous honours including five Dally M Medals and two Clive Churchill Medals, which are considered the NRL’s highest individual honours.
Slater also holds the record for most touchdowns by a defender in NRL history, with 190 total.
He also had a successful representative career, captaining the Queensland state team and representing Australia at international level.
After a successful career, Billy Slater continued to make his mark in the sport of rugby league. He joined the coaching staff of the Queensland Maroons and became a commentator for Channel Nine’s NRL.
In recognition of his contribution to the Melbourne Storm, the team renamed one of the stadium’s stands the “Slater Stand” in his honor.
Slater’s legacy and impact on the game cannot be denied, as he is widely regarded as one of the greatest, if not the greatest, fullback in rugby league history. His numerous achievements and accolades speak for themselves and cement his place in the history of the sport.
Awards and nominations
National Rugby League (NRL)
- Dally M Awards:
- Dally M Defender of the Year (2008, 2011, 2017)
- Daly M Medal (Player of the Year) (2011)
- Dally M Top try scorer (tie) (2005)
- Clive Churchill Medal (Player of the Tournament) (2009, 2017)
International
- Rugby League World Cup:
- Player of the Tournament (2008)
- Top try scorer (2008)
- Golden Boot:
- FIFA World Player of the Year (2008)
- International Federation Player of the Year: (2008)
Country of origin
- Wally Lewis Medal:
- Player of the Series (2010, 2018) (although the 2018 win was controversial)
other
- Melbourne Storm:
- Club Player of the Year (2009)
- Most attempts in club history
- Australia’s greatest sportsman:
- TV Show Champion (2009, 2010)
Social Media
- Instagram account: @b1slater
Personal life
William Slater (aka Billy Slater) is married to Nicole Slater (née Ross). The couple tied the knot in Cairns in 2009 and have two children: a daughter named Tayla Ross and a son named Jack.
Slater was an avid fan of rugby league and thoroughbred horse racing from a young age, and even worked as a handyman for a racehorse trainer in his early years.
net worth
William Slater, also known as Billy Slater, is a highly accomplished and experienced Australian former professional rugby league footballer.
He has achieved great success in his career, gaining recognition both on and off the field. Despite all his achievements, his net worth is thought to be around $18 million (£13.8 million), which is much lower than other top athletes in the same field.
