Maroons fullback Reece Walsh has announced he wants to stay at the Brisbane Broncos for life, with the livewire fullback confident contract negotiations will be sorted soon before he officially becomes a free agent on November 1.
Walsh, 21, has quickly developed into the game’s most popular star, with the flashy fullback leading the Broncos to the grand final last year and establishing himself as one of the most talented players in the games.
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Fans adore him and rival players fear him, which is why the Broncos are desperate to secure his services for as long as possible before other clubs can start negotiating.
And in a massive show of faith, Walsh confirmed on Tuesday that he intends to re-sign with the club that has taken his game to new heights ahead of next week’s Origin opener.
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“The Broncos are a massive part of me being here (in Origin) and I love the club. I want to be here for a long time and all that (contract) stuff will get sorted,” he said.
When asked if he wants to be a Bronco for life, Walsh said: “Yep, 100 per cent.
“I love the club, I followed them as a kid and all that stuff will get sorted out when it gets sorted out.
“I love the people involved in the club and what they stand for. They (the Broncos) have amazing values.
“We have an amazing city, we have amazing fans, they turn up every single week and make it enjoyable to play for the club and come to training.”
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Walsh’s development at the Broncos has been accelerated by sessions with Queensland coach Billy Slater who revolutionised the way fullbacks play the game.
The pair have worked closely together during Maroons camp, with Walsh to again be a focal point in attack as they look to win a third series on the trot.
“His detail around everything is pretty crazy, so it’s awesome just to get things about your body position, the way your shoulder should be, the way your hips should be,” Walsh said.
“It’s pretty crazy and awesome to get those sorts of things that you don’t think about.
“He is the best at what he does, so for me it’s awesome to be around the best fullback to ever play our game.
“To get the opportunity to be coached and mentored by him and getting drills at training is a lifetime opportunity, so I’m soaking it up and enjoying the moments together.“