Reece Walsh: Brisbane Broncos Fullback Profile
Reece Walsh is one of the most electrifying and dynamic fullbacks in the NRL, known for his blistering speed, elite kicking game, line-breaking ability, and fearless attacking flair. At just 23 years old (born 10 July 2002), the Southport, Queensland native has already achieved premiership glory, State of Origin success, and international representation for Australia.
Early Life and Junior Career
Born in Southport on the Gold Coast to an Indigenous Australian father and a Māori mother from Hastings, New Zealand, Walsh was raised in Nerang by his father and stepmother. He first made his mark in junior rugby league with the Nerang Roosters and attended Keebra Park State High School, where the Brisbane Broncos identified his talent early and signed him as a teenager.
In his underage years, Walsh represented Queensland in Murri and under-16 sides (2018–2019) and played for the Tweed Heads Seagulls in lower grades before progressing rapidly.
NRL Debut and New Zealand Warriors (2021–2022)
Walsh made his NRL debut for the New Zealand Warriors on 25 April 2021 (ANZAC Day) against the Melbourne Storm at just 18 years old. He quickly earned a reputation as one of the game’s most exciting young talents, showcasing exceptional speed, vision, and goal-kicking.
Over two seasons with the Warriors, he played 38 NRL games, scoring 11 tries, kicking 69 goals, and amassing 182 points. His standout performances included strong attacking output and reliable fullback play, though the team struggled collectively during that period.
Return to Brisbane Broncos (2023–Present)
In a high-profile homecoming, Walsh rejoined the Brisbane Broncos on a multi-year deal ahead of the 2023 season. He hit the ground running, delivering scintillating form that included try-scoring, try assists, line breaks, and massive running metres.
Key highlights with the Broncos:
- 2023: 22 games, 9 tries, 26 try assists, 21 line breaks, over 3,350 running metres, and strong kicking stats. Helped the Broncos reach the finals.
- 2024: Injury-disrupted season (14 games), but still contributed 14 tries and solid metres.
- 2025: A career-defining year — 21 games, 14 tries, 34 goals, 26 try assists, and elite averages (nearly 150 running metres per game, high tackle efficiency). Walsh was instrumental in leading the Broncos to the 2025 NRL Premiership, earning the Clive Churchill Medal as Grand Final player of the match for his match-winning performance.
As of early 2026, Walsh has played 57 games for the Broncos (37 tries, 55 goals, 1 field goal, 259 points total club career: 95 NRL games, 48 tries, 124 goals, 1 field goal, 441 points). He remains a cornerstone of the Broncos’ attack and is widely regarded as one of the best — if not the best — fullbacks in the world.
Representative Career
Walsh confirmed his allegiance to Queensland and Australia over New Zealand despite his Māori heritage.
State of Origin (Queensland Maroons):
- Debut: Game I, 2023 (31 May 2023 vs NSW at Adelaide Oval).
- 5 appearances (2023–2024), contributing to series wins (notably the 2023 2–1 victory).
- Known for strong defensive reads and attacking threats, though yet to score a try in Origin.
Australia Kangaroos:
- Debut in 2025, playing 3 Tests on the Kangaroo tour of England.
- Scored 4 tries (16 points) in those internationals, showcasing his elite finishing ability.
Playing Style and Achievements
At 177 cm and 88 kg, Walsh combines explosive pace, aerial dominance, pinpoint kicking, and evasive footwork. He’s a proven match-winner, role model for young Indigenous and Māori players, and a key figure in Queensland rugby league.
Major honours:
- 2025 NRL Premiership (Brisbane Broncos)
- 2025 Clive Churchill Medal
- State of Origin series winner (2023)
- Australia international (2025)
With the Broncos entering 2026 as defending premiers and Walsh in peak form, the sky is the limit for this superstar fullback.
Sources: Official NRL/Brisbane Broncos profiles, Wikipedia, Rugby League Project, and recent NRL reporting (stats accurate as of end-2025 season).
Follow Reece Walsh’s journey and cheer on the Broncos!
