Broncos superstar Reece Walsh has made a surprising confession about his post-game habits, revealing that while he typically reviews replays of nearly every NRL match he plays, finals games are a completely different story.
Grand Final Masterclass Unwatched
Walsh delivered a breathtaking performance in last year's grand final, leading the Broncos to a thrilling 26-22 victory over the Storm. His efforts earned him the prestigious Clive Churchill Medal and are widely hailed as the pinnacle of his career to date.
However, despite his heroic contributions—including a crucial try-saving tackle on Ryan Papenhuyzen in the final minute—Walsh has never watched the game back. "I watch every game after ... it's just those finals ones that I haven't watched yet," Walsh exclusively told 7NEWS. "I'm too nervous."
A Mindset of Moving Forward
Walsh explained that his reluctance extends to the 2023 grand final defeat as well, where the Broncos let slip a 24-8 lead against Penrith, resulting in heartbreak for the club seeking its first premiership since 2006. "I haven't watched the 23 (grand final defeat) one so I think my mindset was like, if I don't have the courage to go watch that one, then I shouldn't really be watching the one I won," he said.
When asked why finals replays make him so anxious, Walsh admitted it's somewhat of a mystery. "I don't really know, man," he confessed. But he attributes part of it to his natural inclination to avoid dwelling on the past. "If I dwell on it too much it probably takes away from what I need to do in the present," Walsh noted. "I'd rather go out and die on my sword having a try for the team than not giving it a crack and be guilty of it ... I'm sure the old boys will love that comment."
Learning from Broncos Legends
The "old boys" Walsh refers to are members of Brisbane's legendary 1993 squad, who have been mentoring the current team on how to achieve success. That historic team secured back-to-back premierships, a goal the Broncos are aiming for this season.
"The main message I've got from all the old boys and one's that have been successful is that hard work was never questioned," Walsh shared. "If we've got a good attitude and we're all working hard, we'll be in a good spot to make it count."
Focus on Defensive Improvement
In line with this ethos of hard work, Walsh revealed he is studying St George Illawarra co-captain Clint Gutherson to enhance his defensive skills. "He's always working his backside off and always in position and always doing something for the team," Walsh said. "That's what I want to be known for."
If Walsh continues to improve and the Broncos' plans unfold successfully this season, there may be more celebrations come grand final day. But one thing is certain: don't expect Walsh to be rewatching any of it afterward.
