Latrell Mitchell rates representing the All Stars game as the highlight of his rugby league career, a blessing he says has been bestowed upon him in no small measure by the greats of the past.
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Mitchell will captain the Indigenous All Stars for the first time against Maori All Stars in Townsville on Friday night, an honour that moved him emotionally when coach Ronald Griffiths gave him the good news.
"There were a lot of things going through my head. I was holding back the tears," he said.
The 26-year-old reflected on the legacy that he wants to continue and why the match means so much to him. He's won two premierships, two State of Origin series and a World Cup in his career.
"For me it has been a long journey but this game is probably at the top of my accolades," Mitchell said.
"You pinch yourself every day. I played with Greg (Inglis). I played with Johnathan Thurston.
"There are endless thoughts that go on about how amazing their careers were. I have been under so many great leaders and to come into this (captaincy) role is a great honour and I am very grateful.
"I really appreciate Ron (Griffiths) and his leadership and changing the camp to suit the players. All of my teammates are loving life in the best week of the year."
Mitchell earlier reflected to NRL.com about Preston Campbell, who came up with the concept for the clash back in 2010 when the Indigenous side initially played an NRL All Stars outfit
"The growth over that 14-year period has been unbelievable," he said.
"This game wouldn't happen if it wasn't for the older fellas. We get to continue the tradition and pass it on to the next generation."
Tallisha Harden, co-captain of the Indigenous All Stars women's side, has long been inspired by Campbell.
"I love everything this game stands for," Harden said.
"I remember loving Preston Campbell as a kid and this concept was something I always wanted to be a part of.
"To have so many young girls of Maori, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander (heritage) get that opportunity year-in and year-out only adds to the value of our game."
For Mitchell it is the cultural sharing and understanding that gives him a lift before he returns to clubland with South Sydney.
"We love our culture and love sharing it with the Maori brothers and sisters," he said.
"It is a week where we fill our cups up and get on with the year. We will do it with style on Friday night."
Mitchell said his leadership style was be "pretty cruisey" but he would "flick the switch" on game night.
Australian Associated Press
