The Brisbane Broncos are currently seeking a general manager of football to support new head coach Michael Maguire, following the departure of Ben Ikin to the Queensland Rugby League. In their pursuit, the Broncos had zeroed in on Frank Ponissi, a seasoned executive at the Melbourne Storm, hoping to entice him away. However, recent reports indicate that Ponissi is expected to remain with the Storm, rebuffing interest from both the Broncos and the Collingwood Magpies, who also sought his expertise.
Ponissi has spent 17 years with the Storm, closely collaborating with legendary coach Craig Bellamy. His decision to stay at the Storm not only impacts the Broncos but also boosts the NRL and NSW Rugby League, particularly after his significant contributions to the NSW Blues during this year’s State of Origin series alongside Maguire. With Maguire now at the helm of the Broncos, there had been optimism that their shared history would convince Ponissi to make the switch.
Since Ikin’s exit in 2023, the Broncos have been without a dedicated general manager of football. Ikin’s departure followed a fallout with then-coach Kevin Walters, leading to a need for structural changes within the organization. With Walters no longer with the team, the Broncos are looking to rebuild and restore stability, making it imperative to fill the general manager position to oversee football operations effectively. Recently, they appointed Troy Thomson as the new football operations manager, a move aimed at strengthening their leadership team.
As Maguire embarks on the challenging task of revitalizing the Broncos, the addition of a general manager of football will be crucial. Broncos CEO Dave Donaghy has acknowledged the club’s cultural challenges over the past year and emphasized the importance of cultivating a supportive environment for players. He stated that fostering a positive culture is essential for ensuring that the team aligns with the club’s values and objectives.
Historically, the Broncos operated without a formal general manager of football during Wayne Bennett’s lengthy tenure, relying on his extensive experience. However, as the demands of the sport have evolved, the need for dedicated leadership in this