SLATER confirms retirement from NRL

The 35-year-old Storm fullback confirmed he’s hanging up the boots at season’s end to the applause of a packed media contingent in Melbourne on Wednesday, ending months of speculation about his playing future.

Slater choked back tears as he thanked coach Craig Bellamy and credited long- time teammates Cameron Smith and Cooper Cronk for pushing him to realise his potential.

“Not only have you guys created opportunities for me on the field, but when your peers drive themselves to be the best and they continually succeed – that’s infectious.

“This is why you two have had the greatest influence on my career.”