Brisbane declines to reveal reasons for sacking NRL coach Kevin Walters but admits ‘significant pressure’
Brisbane have declined to reveal the contents of a “number of discussions” that preceded Kevin Walters’ sacking, but acknowledged the “significant pressure that does exist as being the head coach of the Brisbane Broncos”.
Walters became emotional while thanking his family for their support when he and the NRL club’s boss Dave Donaghy fronted media to explain their decision to “part ways” on Friday, but the pair did not take questions from journalists amid speculation the playing group may have played a role in ousting their coach.
“The last few weeks — the last week particularly — Kevin and I have had a number of discussions, particularly when reflecting on the season that’s been and also the challenges of being a professional head coach,” Donaghy said.
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By continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.“We reached a decision collectively where we agreed and accepted that Kev’s time as head coach has come to an end.
“We know the toll it can take and the significant pressure that does exist as being the head coach of the Brisbane Broncos.”
Walters, Donaghy said, had made an “enormous contribution” to the club in taking it from wooden spooners in 2020 to grand finalists last year, losing the decider narrowly to a Nathan Cleary-inspired Penrith, before injury and form woes contributed to the club slipping to a 12th-place finish on the ladder this year.
“I can hand-on-heart say he’s put a pulse back into the Broncos,” the CEO said.
In a statement on Thursday, Walters said he would “spend some quality time with my loved ones, who have supported me all the way” upon exiting the club.
He reiterated his gratitude to his family, including his hooker son Billy, as he spoke on Friday.
“They’ve been really terrific for me. I just want to thank them,” Walters said, his voice wavering as he held back tears.
Donaghy placed his hand on Walters’ back to comfort him.
He described his time at the Broncos as being “very joyful” but including “dry moments” and “moments where you learn and get better”.
He said it was a “tough year for everyone” at the club.
No decision has been made on his replacement.
Originally published on 7NEWS
