Parker: Why Boyd 'ticks every box' for Maroons gig

Corey Parker has backed the appointment of Darius Boyd as Queensland’s next coach, believing he ticks every box required for the position.

  Following Billy Slater’s surprise announcement that he wouldn’t stay on in the role after their series defeat in 2026, the QRL confirmed that the state’s U19S coach and 337-game player for Brisbane, St. George Illawarra and Newcastle would take up the role on a two-year deal.

Speaking on his appointment, Boyd’s former Queensland and Broncos teammate remarked that it marks a complete turnaround from the 18-year-old he met at a pre-season camp.   

“He resonates with a lot of people out there, and he's done a full circle,” Parker said on SENQ Breakfast.

“I met Darius for the first time on an army camp (with the Broncos). He was 18; he'd just come from school.

“He should've been on Schoolies; it was the end of the '05 season, the start of the'06 season.

“And (he's a) very different person then at 18 to where he is right now at 39 and has done a full circle.”

However, Parker was quick to note that he does have the required background across his playing and brief coaching career to make an impact in the modern game.

“But in terms of credentials, I mean he's right up there,” he continued.

“28 games for Queensland, 17 tries. He's won nine series, so he understands what winning is all about.

“He's played 337 games, he's won a Clive Churchill (Medal), he's won a couple of comps, so he ticks every box in that regard.

“I think he understands the modern game and the modern player. I mean, for every criticism that was out there for Darius, you can't take away his knowledge and his nous for the game of rugby league and what he's been able to see from playing fullback.

“He played wing at Queensland for a long period of time, but he was an unbelievable fullback, and he will certainly instil that with the younger generation.

“He's had the 19s for the last two years, and prior to that, I think it was a five-year losing streak.

“He turned them around. They got two wins out of him then, and he's been doing the Broncos' 21s.

“So he's been a part of the system; he's not doing a first-grade side, but it's another big challenge, and I think he's very sure of himself and he knows what he wants to do.”

Speaking with the QRL following his appointment on Thursday, the 2010 Clive Churchill Medallist was privilged to take up the role.

“It’s a privileged position and I’m very grateful for the opportunity,” Boyd said.

“I understand the responsibility that comes with the role as well. My job is to build on the legacy created by the many great Queensland players and coaches who have come before us.”

Speaking of Boyd’s appointment, QRL Chair Brian Canavan said: “Darius has lived and breathed what it means to represent Queensland,” Canavan said.

“His playing achievements speak for themselves, but what has impressed us just as much is the work he has done since retirement to develop as a coach and leader.

“He has built strong relationships throughout our pathways system, earned the respect of players and staff, and demonstrated a genuine commitment to helping young people reach their potential.

“Darius understands the responsibility that comes with the Maroons jersey. He knows our culture, our history and the standards required to succeed at the highest level.”

Following their Game III defeat in this year’s series, the Maroons will look to reclaim the shield in 2027.