Queensland fullback Tamika Upton has received multiple accolades as one of the game's best players but a vote of confidence by the playing group has fine-tuned her focus.

The 28-year-old will co-captain the Maroons for the first time in the State of Origin series opener on Thursday night at Suncorp Stadium.

She will wear the captain's armband alongside Brisbane teammate Ali Brigginshaw.

"Obviously it is really special for me. We did it as a group as well," Upton said.

"We all voted (on the captaincy) as a group and to know that the players think that as well is probably the most special part about it.

"I love playing for Queensland. I love what we do here as a group."

Upton has won four NRLW grand finals at Newcastle and the Broncos and was the player of the match in two them. Add her five internationals and multiple Origin series wins and it is a strong resume.

The dazzling custodian has always been a player of class and rare skills but she has blossomed into a more imposing figure with her talk and general presence on the field.

"I was pretty shy when I first started but obviously when we get on the field it is very different," Upton said.

"That is my job to be loud and to talk. Over the last few years I have become a bit more comfortable in my own skin and know what I am good at.

"It just try and bring out the best in other people and along with that comes a lot of chat and connection with players."

Upton won two titles at the Broncos alongside Brigginshaw before tasting success at the Knights. Now they have reunited in club footy and veteran Brigginshaw can't wait to lead the Maroons into battle alongside her friend.

"She's such a natural leader. We all know she can play but she has grown into a great leader within this group, and any group," Brigginshaw said.

"We are really good mates and it feels natural to me to lead with her. It brings out a bit of youth in me as well so I can't wait to do it for our first time."