NRL 2025: Reece Walsh believes Michael Maguire will turn Broncos boys into men, fullback reveals personal goals for season

Reece Walsh believes no-nonsense Broncos coach Michael Maguire is on a mission to turn boys into men at Red Hill, with the superstar fullback opening up on Madge’s instant Brisbane impact.

Reece Walsh believes no-nonsense Broncos coach Michael Maguire will turn boys into men and he is hoping to be one of them.

Fan magnet Walsh gave a rare press conference at Broncos training on Monday where he spoke about frank conversations he had with Maguire before re-signing with the club for the next five years, his own goal to be a leader and a desire to narrow the gap between his best and worst games.

Asked what impact Maguire would have at the club, Walsh said: “Turning some of us young boys into men – that’s a big one. All of us are building that solid foundation, working hard together. Good habits. It’s exciting times for all of us.’’

Walsh said his personal goal was “narrowing the gap between my best game and my worst. That is the big thing that is sticking out of my head. Madge is big on turning up each day and having a red hot crack.

“It is about me growing as a person and a player. I want to be that player that everyone wants to play with. Madge is driving that. I have so much growth in me.’’

Reece Walsh and the Brisbane Broncos main squad players return to training at Red Hill. Pics Adam Head

“It is time for someone like myself to take on more of a leader role. I want to go on to one of those leader roles and that is about absorbing those great people who have been around for a long time.’’

Walsh said the players would continue to support five-eighth Ezra Mam who faces a brutal year after being charged with drug driving following a car accident in which several people were injured.

“First of all it is just being there for him. At the end of the day he is a person and we have to make sure he is alright. He has obviously got things he is dealing with.

“He is an awesome person and we love having him around the club. It is obviously going to be a little bit weird without him. I know when he does come back he will work really hard to get himself back up.’’

Maguire and Walsh are an interesting fit because earlier this year, as NSW coach, Maguire plotted the downfall of the Queensland side Walsh was a part of but Walsh did not see that as a negative.

Michael Maguire watches on as Reece Walsh and Adam Reynolds complete fitness tests. Picture: Adam Head

“From the chats we have had there are some really honest conversations. He has come up against me in those areas so it is good to know where I have to get better.”

“Madge is driving some really good standards here. Young boys who are on train and trials have done really well.

“I play rugby league to win and I believe we are building a strong work ethic here. All the boys are pushing each other.’’

Originally published as NRL 2025: Reece Walsh believes Michael Maguire will turn Broncos boys into men, fullback reveals personal goals for season