Ben Hunt has detailed the cultural overhaul driving Brisbane’s 2024 ambitions, declaring the Broncos’ pre-season under Michael Maguire the toughest he’s experienced since returning to the club.
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Inside the Pre-Season Revolution
New coach Michael Maguire has wasted no time integrating Hunt into the club’s senior leadership group alongside Adam Reynolds, Pat Carrigan, Payne Haas, and Kotoni Staggs. While Reynolds continues to hold the captaincy, Hunt’s inclusion underscores the immense value placed on his experience and deep understanding of the Broncos’ culture.
Reflecting on his decision to return, Hunt shared, “It was always in my heart that if I ever had an opportunity to finish my career here or ever get back, it was something I really wanted to do.” Hunt’s choice to rejoin the Broncos over a lucrative offer from the Dolphins highlights his emotional connection to the club where his NRL journey began.
The Broncos that Hunt rejoins in 2025 bear little resemblance to the team he left in 2017. The tin shed training facility of old has been replaced by a state-of-the-art $27 million headquarters, and the playing roster has undergone a near-complete transformation. Hunt, however, views these changes as an opportunity to contribute rather than a challenge to overcome.
Hunt also confirms that Maguire’s approach has galvanised Brisbane’s star-studded roster. Under Maguire’s leadership, the team is focused on core values that resonate deeply with Hunt’s career. “The big drivers Madge is bringing in are working hard, competing, and never giving up on your mate,” Hunt explained, reflecting on the emphasis of a recent leadership camp that underscores the Broncos’ renewed direction.
Ben Hunt Embraces His Role in a Redemption Mission
Hunt’s return is more than symbolic. With the potential to reach 200 games for the Broncos this season, his immediate focus is on aiding the team’s premiership aspirations. With Ezra Mam suspended for nine games, Hunt will start at five-eighth in Round 1—a role he’s embraced. “I feel like it’s gone full circle with Madge; he obviously gave me my debut jersey and now, I’m a little older but he’s still showing faith in me,” he said.
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For fans, his homecoming is a source of both nostalgia and optimism. Hunt’s experience, coupled with the club’s evolution under Maguire, positions him not just as a player but as a bridge connecting the team’s rich history to its ambitions for future success.
Published 24-January-2025