Dean Widders has hailed Tyrone Munro for his courage and resilience after the South Sydney youngster bravely opened up to his Indigenous All Stars teammates about one of the most challenging periods of his life.
The softly spoken Munro lost his mother Kirawhan Fernando last year.
The 20-year-old entered All Stars camp for the first time this week and is one of 10 debutants in the Indigenous side.
Part of the induction to All Stars camp is that newcomers address their teammates and explain their family history and connection to their culture.
And as debate rages about where the All Stars match fits in the congested calendar, Widders - one of the game's leading Indigenous voices - said Munro's bravery and perseverance showed why the fixture remains as relevant as ever.
"When we got into camp and heard the stories of the new boys coming in … to see the passion they have and how emotional they got, that tells you that this is important," Widders told AAP.
"Tyrone Munro's story is unbelievable, to think and hear what that kid has been through.
"He spoke about his upbringing and the challenges he faced, the sadness he's had recently, but also that this jersey, it was hope for him as a young kid.
"Rugby league was his answer for what he had grown up with and the challenges he had faced.
"He has played first grade already, but he was quite emotional about what this opportunity means to him and what he's looking forward to."
NSW State of Origin utility Connor Watson said of Munro: "I was really impressed with Ty - he's got a calm and composed head on his shoulders.
"I feel just talking to him, hearing a bit about his story.
"He could be capable of anything in the game and I'm excited to see how his career pans out, and I can't wait to play with him this weekend."
Widders and Watson were speaking on Tuesday as both Indigenous and Maori sides performed traditional welcoming ceremonies on the banks of the Parramatta River overlooking CommBank Stadium.
The Indigenous side, who face the Maori on Saturday, is missing a hefty whack of star power - Latrell Mitchell, Josh Addo-Carr, Cody Walker and Nicho Hynes are all sidelined through injury or suspension.
But their absences are Watson's gain, the 28-year-old eager to add to his one All Stars appearance after being out of the side since 2020 with injuries.
"It's always been something I've wanted to play in," Watson said.
"I would have been 23 when I played my first one and you think you'll play forever and then all of a sudden I'm 28.
"I probably come back here with a lot of experience now, but this gives a great opportunity for the young guys (to make a name for themselves).
"Josh Kerr, Shaq (Mitchell) - 2020 was the first time Jordan Riki played for the Maori - it shows your club teams that you're up to standard.
"We've got guys like Blake Steep and Ethan Roberts at the Roosters who've trained well this off-season, and it's a chance to show to (coach) Trent (Robinson) they are capable of playing NRL."
