'Can't dwell on it': Broncos star Payne Haas opens up on coaching change as 'honest' approach welcomed
Broncos star Payne Haas has opened up on the coaching change at the club, admitting he "can't really dwell" on the departure of Kevin Walters.
The 25-year-old has been among the club's best players for the past half a decade, cementing himself as arguably the best front-rower in the NRL.
Haas has already played under three different full-time head coaches in his career and the arrival of Michael Maguire will make it four.
READ MORE: 'Tragic': Former rugby star feared dead after freak flood
READ MORE: 'Unwanted' halfback could solve rival NRL club's woes
READ MORE: Aussie's brutal sledge to WWE's most polarising star
While the NSW Blues and Kangaroos wrecking ball shared a close relationship with his now-former mentor in Walters, he admitted his sacking needed to be left in the past.
Kevin Walters was let go by the Broncos at season's end. Getty
"It was hard at the time, but I can't really dwell on that now," Haas said.
"I've got to be in the present. I've got Madge here now and I'm really enjoying my time under Madge. I've got a lot of love for Kevvy and he knows that.
"But you can't really hold onto the past. You've got to keep moving and be present."
Walters took the Broncos to a grand final appearance in 2023 but after the side failed to make the finals the following season, it was a quick axing for the club legend.
It will now be Maguire stepping into the hot-seat at Red Hill in a bid to end a 19-year drought and despite a rough stint at the Wests Tigers, the premiership winner has been at the forefront of two massive victories at State of Origin and international level of late.
Maguire led the Blues to a series victory this year, while just over 12 months ago was at the helm when the Kiwis pulled off a shocking 30-0 victory over the Kangaroos.
Michael Maguire's first appearance as Broncos coach. Nine
Haas worked with Maguire in 2024 and explained why he is the perfect fit for the young squad, who are still coming to grips with a rollercoaster two years.
"We're a young group, but [he encouraged us] to be men and to speak to each other and be honest and upfront to each other," Haas said.
"All the boys are buying in and having a red hot crack, so it's been good.
"It's been a good pre-season so far. It's been tough, but all the boys are getting around each other and helping each other improve every day. That's all that matters.
"I know what Madge is about, especially after having him in Origin. I know what he brings and I know what he expects of us players which makes it a bit easier to transition.
"I've been through three coaches now, so I'm used to it all."
Brisbane will kick off their 2025 campaign against the Sydney Roosters.
