Reece Walsh has claimed he’s ‘100 per cent’ on board with committing long-term to the Broncos, with the dynamic fullback preparing for his second State of Origin series.
The 21-year-old lit up rugby league’s toughest arena last year, helping the Maroons secure a victory over NSW, and will be back on deck for the 2024 series.
Walsh has benefited from moving home to Queensland and being closer to his family after a brief stint with the Warriors, while his foray into the rep arena has taken his game to the next level on and off the field.
When quizzed on whether he will be extending at the Broncos beyond his current deal – which expires at the end of 2025 – the speedster didn’t hesitate.
“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 stuff will get sorted,” Walsh said.
“One-hundred per cent [I want to stay]. 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 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.”
Walsh has crossed for nine tries in nine appearances this year for the Broncos, while also making eight linebreaks and averaging 149 metres per game.
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His efforts with ball in hand have never been an issue, but the finer details of his game are what Walsh is hoping to continue to work on in this Origin camp.
And there’s no better person to learn from than Maroons coach Billy Slater.
“His detail around everything is pretty crazy,” Walsh said.
“It’s awesome just to get things about your body position, the way your shoulder should be, the way your hips should be. 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.”
Walsh will wear the No.1 jumper for Queensland next Wednesday at Accor Stadium.
