Cronulla won’t stand in the way of assistant Josh Hannay pursuing the vacant Brisbane job as the Broncos vowed to move quickly in their search for Kevin Walters' replacement.
Walters’ tenure was brought to an end on Thursday, less than 12 months after he took the club to a grand final where they were undone by a career-best showing from Penrith halfback Nathan Cleary.
Since then, Brisbane have been on the slide and finished the regular season in 12th spot, the third of four campaigns under Walters where the Broncos have finished outside of the top eight.
The club’s erratic form in 2024 prompted Broncos bosses to launch a review with the findings sparking Walters’ exit.
Walters spoke briefly to reporters in Brisbane on Friday, choking back tears as he reflected on his departure from a club where he won five premierships as a player.
"I am really proud of the fact that when I arrived here the club wasn't in great shape,” Walters said.
“I feel that myself, along with a lot of other good staff and people here, have shaped the club.
"Probably the proudest moment was last year's grand final, my son (hooker Billy) and all my family in attendance.”
Broncos chief executive Dave Donaghy said Walters deserved credit for bringing a “pulse” back to the Red Hill club after the 2020 wooden spoon season presided over by Anthony Seibold.
But the 56-year-old’s exit was greeted with a negative reaction from the club’s old boys.
Walters’ former teammate Shane Webcke told SEN the decision was a “mistake” and showed a “terrible weakness”.
“Who’s available right now who is going to be a better fit than Kevvie Walters,” Webcke asked.
Donaghy revealed Walters’ anticipated backroom staff for next season - headed by new assistants Ben Te'o and Trent Barrett - would remain in position and that the club would "move quickly" to find a long-term option.
Webcke, however, played down the prospects of NSW State of Origin coach Michael Maguire taking on the gig.
“He coaches NSW. Spare me that,” Webcke added.
“I’ve got nothing against him, but did we get rid of Kevvie Walters for that?”
Aside from Maguire and Queensland coach Billy Slater, who told Triple M Brisbane he had no interest in the role, Hannay appears the most likely contender.
Hannay was in the frame to take the Parramatta job before being pipped by Jason Ryles and has been lauded for his impressive work as a No.2 to Craig Fitzgibbon and with the Maroons under Slater.
“Josh was in the frame for the Parramatta job as well so with respect, we hope that someday Josh does get an opportunity,” said Fitzgibbon.
“He's obviously a wonderful coach, did a terrific job with Queensland, does amazing work with us as do (fellow assistant coaches) 'DJ' Holdsworth and Steve Price.
“We've got a really good coaching group and I'd love to keep them here, I'm not going to lie about that.
“I wish and hope he stays but I'd also understand if a club like Brisbane were in the running he should be looking at that.”
Meanwhile, the NRL has been made aware of an incident involving Broncos duo Reece Walsh and Ezra Mam during their off-season trip to Bali.
Reports emerged on Friday morning a complaint had been lodged with the NRL, the complainant alleging their phone had been taken by Mam after requesting a selfie with Walsh.
The Broncos declined to comment when contacted by AAP but confirmed they were aware of the situation.
KEVIN WALTERS' BRONCOS TENURE AT A GLANCE
Games coached: 99. Wins: 50. Losses: 49.
2021 - 14th - 7-17
2022 - 9th, 13-11
2023 - 2nd, 18-6, grand finalists
2024 - 12th 10-14
