Brisbane Broncos fullback Reece Walsh is setting his sights on cementing the Queensland Maroons number one jersey, driven by a relentless pursuit of improvement despite a stellar 2024 NRL season. The 22-year-old, who recently signed a four-year contract extension with the Broncos through 2029, isn’t content with past successes and is focused on elevating his game to another level, with State of Origin representation firmly in his sights.
Walsh’s commitment to growth is evident in his self-assessment, acknowledging areas where he can refine his skills. While his attacking prowess is undeniable – evidenced by 34 tries and 57 try assists in 74 NRL appearances – he’s acutely aware of the require to bolster his defensive consistency. Last season saw his tackle efficiency dip to 75.56 percent, a decrease from his previous 90 percent, a statistic he attributes to an injury-disrupted campaign. The focus now is on improving his initial tackle contact, positioning, and urgency in defense. “Those things that don’t come natural to me, I’m trying to work on and iron those out,” Walsh said. “I’m a work in progress, I’m not going to receive everything right … that’s something that’s not too strong in my game that I want to try and get better at.”
A Team-First Mentality Fuels Broncos Ambition
Beyond individual improvement, Walsh emphasizes the collective spirit within the Brisbane Broncos squad. He highlights a shift in team culture under coach Michael Maguire, where accountability and shared standards are paramount. “Everybody’s driving that standard, it doesn’t matter if you’re number 30 in the roster or number one, everybody’s valued in this club and we know the standards. We’re going to hold each other accountable,” Walsh explained. This unified approach, he believes, sets the Broncos apart. “There’s no ‘he’s better than him’ in this squad. I consider that’s what makes us pretty unique since it probably hasn’t always been like that here.”
The Broncos are entering the 2025 season as a team to watch, fresh off a grand final appearance. Though, Walsh dismisses any notion of being the “hunted,” asserting a proactive mindset. “I wouldn’t say we’re the hunted, we’re the hunters – we’re going after it,” he stated, signaling a determined pursuit of premiership success. This aggressive approach will be immediately tested on Friday night against the Penrith Panthers, as Brisbane looks to move past their 30-24 loss in the World Club Challenge to Hull KR in England.
Spine Connection Key to Broncos’ Potential
A significant factor in Brisbane’s ambitions is the developing synergy within their spine – Walsh at fullback, paired with halves Ezra Mam and Adam Reynolds, and hooker Ben Hunt. The quartet’s limited time together last year, due to injuries and suspensions, hampered their cohesion. They only started four games together, including a loss to the Melbourne Storm where both Reynolds and Mam were forced off the field with hamstring injuries. However, when fully fit, the combination proved potent, scoring 106 points in their three complete matches together, with a single defeat to the Parramatta Eels.
Reece Walsh’s try in the grand final will live long in the memory.Credit: Getty Images
Walsh believes the best is yet to come for this key group. “I don’t think we’ve even scratched the surface of what we can do as a spine,” he said. “Connection is our biggest one, and I don’t feel like we’ve mastered that yet. It’s pretty scary, if we all get in that mindset where we’re connecting, flowing and directing this team around, I think it’s exciting for what’s ahead.”
Queensland Origin Aspirations
While focused on the immediate task of the NRL season, Walsh’s ambitions extend to representing Queensland in the State of Origin arena. Having already earned a Maroons debut, he’s eager to solidify his position as the first-choice fullback. His development with the Broncos, coupled with his commitment to improving all facets of his game, will undoubtedly be closely monitored by Queensland coach Billy Slater. The path to Origin selection will be paved by consistent performances for Brisbane, and a continued focus on building that crucial connection with his spine partners.
The Broncos’ clash with the Panthers on Friday night marks the beginning of their campaign to reclaim the NRL premiership. For Reece Walsh, it’s not just about team success, but a personal journey of refinement and a determined push towards representing his state on the biggest stage. The 2025 season promises to be a pivotal one for the young fullback, as he strives to reach his full potential and grow a cornerstone of both the Broncos and the Maroons.
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