Kobe Hetherington Signs One-Year Extension with Broncos, Future Still Uncertain
Brisbane Broncos forward Kobe Hetherington has agreed to a one-year contract extension with the club under new head coach Michael Maguire. The decision to sign a shorter-term deal—despite being offered a longer contract—has raised questions about his long-term future at Red Hill.
Hetherington, who started the season in the No. 13 jersey and has been a standout under Maguire’s leadership, has recently shifted to a bench role. This move came as Patrick Carrigan returned to the lock position and Xavier Willison was elevated to the front row, giving the Broncos additional size in the middle while still benefiting from Hetherington’s tireless energy off the bench.
While the North Sydney Bears continue to pursue marquee players like Ryan Papenhuyzen and Jahrome Hughes, they are also cashed-up and ready to pursue other targets—Hetherington potentially among them. The 25-year-old forward will become free to negotiate with rival clubs from November 1, opening the door for a bigger offer elsewhere following his 12-month extension.
Hetherington’s manager, Chris Haddad, confirmed the decision to take a short-term deal was intentional, allowing Kobe to keep pushing his limits.
“It’s a great result,” Haddad said. “Kobe is happy at the Broncos, so we were happy to commit to another year and reassess things after that. The club offered a two-year deal, but Kobe was keen on the 12-month option to keep testing and challenging himself.”
Haddad also revealed that multiple Sydney-based clubs had shown interest in Hetherington, but the opportunity to work with Maguire was a key factor in staying put.
“He could’ve left the Broncos. Several Sydney clubs were keen, but after sitting down with ‘Madge,’ it was clear he wanted to coach Kobe. He’s really enjoying the experience under Madge’s guidance.”
