Maroon defence underway

THE XXXX Queensland Maroons have begun preparations to defend their Harvey Norman State of Origin crown, following on from this year?s miraculous 2-1 series defeat of New South Wales.

QRL Managing Director Ross Livermore said there had been encouraging outcomes from a special State of Origin Planning Committee meeting, held this morning in Brisbane.

In attendance were Mr Livermore, incumbent coach Mal Meninga, team manager Steve Walters and selectors Des Morris and Gene Miles.

Topics on the agenda included team selection, staffing, training and accommodation locations, promotional activities and public events.

A willingness was again shown to again take the XXXX Maroons into regional areas. In recent years the team has held fan days in Maryborough and Rockhampton and spent significant time on the Sunshine and Gold Coasts.

In regards to staffing it was noted that several key support men, such as Neil Henry, Billy Johnstone and Steve Hooper, will be facing new challenges in 2007 with their club commitments. An undertaking was made to observe these personnel and assess any likely impact.

Although head coach Meninga is yet to commit to the team for next year and beyond, there are positive signs of a continued involvement.

?We have no reason to believe Mal won?t be the coach, but at the same time the situation is yet to be finalised,? Mr Livermore said.

?Mal has significant business interests and the truth of the matter is that these will take some serious juggling with the commitment needed for the series and prior.?

The 2007 State of Origin series will see matches held on May 23 (Brisbane), June 13 (Sydney) and July 4 (Brisbane).