BREAKING NEWS- Maguire’s Decision to axe star forward from the team Sparks Controversy as fans reacts
New Brisbane Broncos coach Michael Maguire has reportedly resolved forward Kobe Hetherington’s immediate future with the club, after previously allowing him to explore options on the open market back in September. For months, Hetherington had been linked to potential moves to the St George Illawarra Dragons or the Wests Tigers. These speculations led to concerns that he might have played his last game for the Broncos, following in the footsteps of his former coach Kevin Walters by departing from the club.
Maguire, now stepping in as head coach, has ambitious plans to elevate the Broncos back to the heights of their remarkable 2023 season, where they reached the NRL Grand Final. In pursuit of renewed success, Maguire has set out to make strategic adjustments to the roster he inherited from Walters. As part of this effort, reports emerged that he was having a crucial discussion with Hetherington regarding his future.
The Courier-Mail now reports that Maguire has clarified his stance: Hetherington will not be released early and is expected to fulfill the remainder of his contract with Brisbane, which runs through to the end of 2025. This means he will be part of the Broncos’ plans for at least the next season, although his long-term position remains uncertain, especially given that he’s currently second to Patrick Carrigan in the lineup hierarchy.
While the decision secures Hetherington’s role for 2024, the possibility of a future with another team lingers. Both the Dragons and Tigers are still potential suitors once his contract expires, and they will be able to negotiate with him for the 2026 season. However, neither club has put forward an official offer at this point.
Hetherington, a player likened to Queensland Maroons legend Trevor Gillmeister for his grit and work ethic, represented the PM’s XIII during their recent match in Papua New Guinea, a testament to his potential. With the upcoming year ahead, he’s eager to impress Maguire and prove his value within the team. His versatility in the forwards gives him the flexibility to play either as a starting front-rower or in the back-row, a crucial attribute as the Broncos continue to look for options to strengthen their forward pack, following the departures of key players Thomas Flegler, Kurt Capewell, and Keenan Palasia.
Having made 77 appearances for the Broncos since his debut in 2021, Hetherington has established himself as a reliable presence on the field. This season, he featured in 22 games, racking up an impressive 1,483 running meters, averaging 67 meters per game. His defensive contributions were equally solid, with 527 tackles at an impressive 94.4 percent tackle efficiency, along with 25 tackle busts and a memorable try against the Gold Coast Titans in Round 22.
Hetherington recently reflected on his first conversation with Maguire, saying, “Madge called me last week, and I spoke to him for the first time. He seems like a good fella. I never want to leave the Broncos. I’ve been there for seven years, and it’s all I really know. I live and breathe the Broncos.”
As Maguire’s coaching era at Brisbane begins, Hetherington’s focus remains firmly on making his mark, helping the Broncos reclaim their competitive edge, and securing his place in the team’s plans for years to come.
