In a significant move as the new head coach of the Brisbane Broncos, Michael Maguire has confirmed that Adam Reynolds will continue as the team’s captain for the 2025 NRL season. Reynolds, who has held the captaincy since joining the Broncos in 2022, shares a storied history with Maguire, having clinched the 2014 NRL Premiership together at the South Sydney Rabbitohs.
Maguire expressed his confidence in Reynolds’ leadership, stating, “I’ve always said Reyno is a leader, and it’s very clear to me that this group of players really enjoy playing with him, but importantly—for him.” He further emphasized their enduring connection, noting, “I’ve had a deep connection with Reyno for many years and am proud of his journey, and I know how hungry he is to keep leading from the front for this group.”
Reynolds, 34, expressed his enthusiasm about continuing in the role, stating, “I love being captain of this club, it’s a great honour, and means a lot to myself and my family. It feels like home now.” Reflecting on his relationship with Maguire, he added, “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 to continue as captain.”
In addition to reaffirming Reynolds’ captaincy, Maguire has established a formal leadership group to guide the team. This group comprises Patrick Carrigan, Payne Haas, Kotoni Staggs, and returning playmaker Ben Hunt. Hunt’s return to Brisbane, after his stint with St George Illawarra since 2018, is particularly noteworthy. He is anticipated to partner with Reynolds in the halves, especially given five-eighth Ezra Mam’s nine-game suspension.
Maguire highlighted the diverse leadership styles within the team, stating, “Everyone brings something different to the table in terms of the way they go about their business; that’s what makes special teams.” He also emphasized the importance of collective leadership, asserting, “Everyone should be a leader at this club, from the youngest to the oldest, through our behaviours and our actions every day. That needs to be our mindset moving forward.”
This leadership announcement follows a rigorous three-day, police-style boot camp that the Broncos underwent, designed to test and enhance the squad’s resilience and unity ahead of the upcoming season.
As the Broncos prepare for the 2025 season, the reaffirmation of Reynolds’ captaincy and the establishment of a robust leadership group underscore Maguire’s strategic approach to fostering a culture of shared responsibility and excellence within the team.
