Touch star Harry Griffin to represent Qld in State of Origin series

Fresh from conquering the Kiwis in the Trans-Tasman, Rockhampton’s Harry Griffin is now readying to battle the Blues. He explains why playing State of Origin means so much.

Rockhampton's Harry Griffin says State of Origin touch football is another level.

Harry Griffin says representing Australia is a “massive privilege” but nothing quite compares to the epic rivalry of State of Origin touch football.

The gun Rockhampton link is gearing up for the interstate challenge, to be held at Coffs Harbour on June 20 and 21.

He will play with the Queensland open men, joined by fellow Rockhampton reps Bailey Assay, Jayden Benbow, Malcolm Kenny, Zayne Cox and Flynn Kelso.

The Maroons will hold a training camp in the Beef Capital this weekend, taking on a Rocky All Stars side on Saturday as part of their preparation.

Harry Griffin is back to his brilliant best after a knee reconstruction. Photo: Touch Football Australia

Griffin, 27, has swept all before him since his return from a knee reconstruction in 2023.

He was instrumental in the Australian Emus winning an unprecedented 10th gold medal at the Touch Football World Cup in England last year.

Most recently, he played a pivotal role in their memorable 3-nil victory over New Zealand in last month’s Trans-Tasman Series.

Benbow and Kenny were also in the team, as was Assay, who starred on debut for the Aussies.

Griffin said they would be keen to continue their winning ways when they don the maroon, ready to defend their hard-earned title.

“It’s on every two years and it’s the one we all pencil in our calendars as the biggest one,” he said.

Harry Griffin was a standout once again for Australia in last month's Trans-Tasman Series. Photo: Touch Football Australia

“To represent your country is a massive privilege and an awesome achievement but the speed, physicality and pace of the game in State of Origin is second to none.

“It’s definitely the toughest three games you’ll ever play.”

Griffin is ready to replicate for Queensland the same scintillating form he produced against the Kiwis.

He is still flying high after the Aussies’ gritty performance.

“It was awesome,” he declared.

“Playing them in their own backyard is always a massive challenge.

“Results over the past 20 years show just how hard it is so to be able to not only beat them but beat them 3-nil was really special.”

Bailey Assay in full flight. Photo: Touch Football Australia

Griffin was enthusiastic about the performance of his teammate Assay in his first outing in the green and gold.

Assay was one of the Aussies’ leading scorers, finishing with four tries.

“Bailey certainly didn’t look out of place,” Griffin said.

“He works really hard on his craft and to see him step up and do it on the biggest stage of the game, we were really proud of him.

“It was a pleasure to be part of, to be there with him and witness on the field.”