XXXX Maroons assistant coach Michael Hagan has beaten plenty of things in life, including the biggest battle of them all, prostate cancer back in 2009.
The crafty former Queensland, Bulldogs and Knights half overcame the illness and now has a clear message for all men.
"Prostate cancer doesn't discriminate; whether you're fit, work in an office or never worked a day in your life. You have a responsibility to book a screening test as part of your annual check-up," Hagan says.
Hagan currently juggles a number of roles, including being a co-pilot for Mal Meninga since 2010.
Meninga appreciates the balance Hagan brings to the Maroons camp.
"He suits Origin," Meninga says.
"He understands it really well, he's a great team player. He's a very good communicator and he gets to know his players really well, too. He's also a really good bloke."
The XXXX Queensland Maroons will continue to push the importance of these awareness activities, with some further engagements whilst in camp throughout the Origin series.
Hagan opened up to Newcastle Herald journalist Rosemary Milsom in an insightful feature last weekend; see the story here: Michael Hagan's Fresh Perspective