The Dragons duo was selected by fans in the star-studded side which features the talents of Greg Inglis, Johnathan Thurston and Scott Prince.

"Last year I pushed my way into the country side, which was a big achievement, but there'll be no bigger high than playing with the Indigenous All Stars," Soward said.

"I'll probably have to slot in on the bench somewhere ... it will be pretty hard to push out arguably the best player in the world (Thurston) and Scott Prince in the halves. I'm just happy to be there and if I have to carry the oranges I will."

Sailor announced his retirement last week but will use the inaugural all-star match on the Gold Coast in February as his farewell.

Soward has struck up a close friendship with Sailor over the past two seasons, with the veteran winger acting as a mentor for the 25 year-old.

"It's going to be a pretty big day being the last time we play together. He's just been a great ambassador for the game, the Dragons club and the indigenous people," said Soward.

"We're really good mates and we stay in touch all the time. It's going to be different not playing this year but I'm glad I get the opportunity to see him off the way he deserves. He's just a great bloke and he's going to be missed.

Dragons coach Wayne Bennett will coach the opposition NRL All Stars, a team made up of at least one player from every NRL side, again voted on by fans.

"I'm going to ask Wayne this week before he goes into camp to not give away too many secrets," Soward laughed.

Soward is proud of his indigenous heritage and works with indigenous youth as part of the Dragons community program.

He is part of the Wiradjuri people of the Bathurst area and says the match will have a lasting effect on young indigenous rugby league players.

"I think it gives young indigenous kids a path to show that you can get to the top and that indigenous kids can compete at the elite level," he said.

"Greg Inglis won the Golden Boot and he's playing in this game. If indigenous kids can work hard, stay disciplined and keep at it, then hopefully they can be playing in the All Stars game one day too."