With State of Origin Game Two about to kick off, most eyes are fixed on the field.
But off the field, a lesser-known initiative is quietly shaping the financial and professional futures of Queensland’s top players — with a little help from the real estate world.
Enter the 1980 Initiative, a mentorship program backed by Former Origin Greats (FOGs) and supported by the Queensland Rugby League.
Designed to preserve Queensland’s dominance in the interstate arena, it’s more than just footy talk.
The Initiative brings together business leaders who mentor current and future Maroons — not on passing drills, but on life beyond the game.
One of those mentors is Scott Mackey, broker-owner of REMAX Precision and a long-time supporter of the program.
Since 2015, Scott has offered guidance to Queensland’s elite, advising them on everything from real estate investment to long-term financial security.
“The 1980 Initiative isn’t about standing in front of a classroom. It’s about being present and available,” he says.
“We’re there in the background — training camps, meals, casual chats — so players know they have someone to turn to when the spotlight dims.”
And it’s a spotlight that shines fiercely. Professional athletes may have extraordinary talent, but they also face extraordinary pressure — from the media, from their communities, and even from friends and family hoping for a slice of success.
Add to that a short career span, and it’s easy to see why financial guidance matters.
Scott’s conversations with players tend to start with the basics.
“A lot of these guys are just starting out in their financial life. They might have a million-dollar contract, but no real idea how to make that money last beyond their playing days,” he says.
Real estate is a common focus. Mackey recently helped Queensland hooker and Melbourne Storm captain Harry Grant purchase a two-bedroom apartment in Richmond Hill.
The property — with sweeping views and a wraparound deck — is ideally positioned for short-term rental, something Scott says more players are starting to consider.
“Harry’s as focused off the field as he is on it,” he says. “He’s building a portfolio that blends fixed rentals with short-term income — it’s smart, it’s sustainable.”
But the guidance goes beyond investment tips. Scott’s mantra — borrowed from one of his most popular sessions — is “don’t talk tackling technique with the kicking coach.” In other words, choose your advisers carefully.
“It’s about teaching players how to ask the right questions and find the right people,” he says.
“Too many take financial advice from the wrong person — maybe a mate, maybe a parent — and end up in trouble.”
And the same goes for real estate agents.
“Elite agents and elite athletes aren’t that different,” he says.
“They both come into sudden money and attention, usually without much preparation. They both face pressure to look successful — the cars, the restaurants, the social media — and they both burn out fast if they don’t build something solid underneath.”
Scott draws a direct line between the temptations of flashy spending and the risks of living beyond your means.
“You’ve got young agents earning $400K or $600K and thinking it’s forever. They buy the car, lease the watch, post the lifestyle.
“But if they don’t understand passive income or plan for a slower market, they’re in trouble. It’s no different from a winger who signs a big deal, then gets injured the next season. That money’s gone — what then?”
He points out that high-performing agents often fall into the same cycle as young footballers: a burst of success, a flood of opportunity, then a risk of distraction.
“Once the spotlight’s on you, you’re getting invited to all the things. The lunches, the parties, the overseas trips.
“But if you’re not doing your extras — the prospecting, the training, the real work — someone hungrier will pass you,” he says. “It’s no different to football. You’ve got to back up, week after week.”
There’s also a broader benefit to Scott’s role: unique access.
Being in camp, at training, or even in the sheds post-match allows him to offer experiences and insight few others can. “It builds trust,” he says.
“And for clients who love footy, it can be pretty special.”
The real takeaway from Scott’s work isn’t just about State of Origin or flashy portfolios. It’s about setting players — and professionals — up for long-term success.
It’s about structure, support, and knowing that someone has your back when the crowd stops cheering.
“Elite status isn’t about one big year,” he says.
“It’s what you build behind the scenes that matters most — whether you’re wearing a jersey or a suit.”
