Reece Walsh & the Brisbane Broncos rejoiced after a scintillating 26-22 upset of the seemingly unstoppable Melbourne Storm at NRL grand final 2023. This historic victory was a huge breakthrough for the player and the organization. The victory spoiled earlier inflammatory comments from Storm enforcer Stefano Utoikamanu, who labelled the Broncos “up themselves.” Even more, it shone a light on Walsh’s incredible story all season long.
In an incredible performance filled with grit and finesse, Walsh’s dynamic contributions carried the Broncos to their first-ever Grand Final triumph. Second time out, he scored a voted picture-perfect try! On top of this, he helped create three more attempts, demonstrating his knack for operating when the stakes are high. His match-defining plays against heavyweights Canberra, Penrith and Melbourne have injected life into Brisbane’s campaign. This explosion in performance came just off the heels of his inspiring return from a torn anterior cruciate ligament suffered in June.
Hours after the final whistle, Walsh still seemed dazed by the accomplishment. The proud Queenslander was only four years old the last time the Broncos hoisted a trophy. These days he makes no secret of his happiness.
“I just won a comp WTF,” laughed Reece Walsh.
While Walsh’s MVP performance on-field was historic enough, his off-field antics topped the celebration which has since gone down in the National Football League lore. He went on to win his seat famously with a victory lap of honor, brandishing a toilet mug and shouting, “plumber out.” This moment was therefore a funny little homage to a social media joke that had floated around leading up to the grand final. In the locker room, Walsh fully committed, chugging from the toilet cup. His audacious move was a reflection of his irreverent soul—light-hearted, despite the cutthroat nature of the race.
Walsh had previously revealed that he maintained a self-imposed booze ban during the season, focusing entirely on his performance and team goals. When Brodie returned to the Brisbane Broncos from the New Zealand Warriors in 2023, his dedication and commitment were clearly on display. Wanting to make an immediate impact, he tried to locate Adam Reynolds’ 2014 championship ring. This little ring was a big reminder of what we were fighting against.
The 23-year-old’s journey this season has been miraculous to say the least. Fresh off returning from injury, he helped motivate the Broncos to win 13 of their last 16 games. Moreover, his tireless pursuit of the trophy became legend among his teammates. That commitment came back to handsomely reward them in the grand final.
“That’s my brothers, through it all no one can break this bond, this is who I do it for,” said teammate Payne Haas.
As Walsh stood on the sidelines celebrating with his team, their shared hard work and determination won this historic victory, and he was eager to take the credit. He was quick to point out that it was reliance on one another, friendship and teamwork that made them successful.
“My people, my people. I’ve got one thing to say. Payne — is he the best ever?” he stated during the celebration.
The Clive Churchill medallist produced an exceptional 80-minute display in the decider. His rare defensive brilliance, polishing off a trio of match-winning, try-saving tackles, nevertheless proved the difference between the two sides on Saturday night.
“He’s won everything, he’s got his ring.”
The Clive Churchill medallist’s performance throughout the final was complemented by his exceptional defensive plays, including three crucial try-saving tackles that ultimately shaped the outcome of the match.
