The Brisbane Broncos are actively searching for a new head coach following Kevin Walters’ departure after four years in the role. Leading one of Australia’s most storied rugby league clubs carries immense pressure, especially as the team has not claimed a premiership since 2006. The Broncos are likely to pursue an experienced NRL coach, with Michael Maguire, a premiership winner and New South Wales Blues coach, being a prominent candidate.
However, an unconventional choice could be Brad Thorn, a former Broncos player who hasn’t been involved in rugby league since his retirement in 2007 after achieving significant success with the club. Since then, Thorn has transitioned to rugby union, where he coached the Queensland Reds for six years, culminating in a quarter-final exit in 2023. While there’s no indication that Thorn is interested in the Broncos’ coaching position or that the club would consider him, his coaching experience and character could make him an intriguing candidate.
Despite not having recent NRL experience—something that could be a disadvantage given the league’s evolving nature—Thorn has demonstrated a strong coaching acumen. His tenure with the Reds transformed a struggling team into a competitive force, leading them to two Super Rugby Australia grand finals and one championship. His emphasis on hard work, accountability, and high standards resonated well with his players, as noted by Reds co-captain Tate McDermott.
If Thorn isn’t the choice, another potential candidate is Josh Hannay, currently an assistant coach at Cronulla. Hannay has built a solid reputation and has connections with key Broncos players like Pat Carrigan, Selwyn Cobbo, and Reece Walsh. He has also played a crucial role in developing Queensland’s defensive strategies during State of Origin, earning praise from Maroons coach Billy Slater.
Hannay has previously stepped in as an interim head coach for both the North Queensland Cowboys and Cronulla Sharks, successfully navigating the challenges of midseason changes in leadership. Despite losing out on the Parramatta Eels head coaching position to Jason Ryles, Hannay is seen as a promising candidate for future head coaching roles, with his current head coach, Craig Fitzgibbon, endorsing him for a top position, particularly at a club like Brisbane.
The Broncos’ defensive performance has been under scrutiny, particularly in the latter half of the season, where they conceded an average of nearly 30 points per game. Hannay’s defensive expertise could be vital for addressing these issues. His work with the Maroons has already shown significant results, with standout defensive plays from his players in high-pressure situations, highlighting his effectiveness in improving defensive strategies.
Given the limited pool of experienced coaches—many of whom have been let go in recent years—the Broncos may benefit from a fresh approach. New leadership with innovative ideas and a strong vision for the team could be exactly what the club needs to reclaim its former glory.
