Jesse Southwell in the Knights’ victory against the Raiders.Credit: NRL Images
Broughton will leave Red Hill for the New Zealand Warriors ahead of the 2026 season on a two-year deal, with Brisbane heavily tipped to sign rising sensation Jesse Southwell from Newcastle to replace her.
“She’s such a talented kid, it scares me to think that she’s so young, and she’s doing what she’s doing,” Broughton said.
“I can only see her going from strength to strength as the years go on.”
The Kiwi will return to her home nation with a heavy heart, having forged a palpable bond with her fellow Broncos’ spine-members, but stressed it was the right choice for her and her young family.
She will be joined by Broncos’ premiership-winning teammate and Karyn Murphy Medallist Mele Hafagana (three-year deal).
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“If there’s one thing I’ve learnt since becoming a parent … there’s always two of you. Some things are just bigger than footy, and especially when it comes to your children,” Broughton said.
“I’ll do anything for my son. I’d move heaven and earth for him. If that means moving back home to make sure we’ve got more support, then I’ll jump on the first plane there.”
But she will return to her home nation instilled with lessons injected into by Broncos coach and former Wests Tigers premiership-winning halfback Scott Prince.
Prince has orchestrated the most clinical attack in the NRLW, with the Broncos heading into Sunday’s grand final averaging more than 36 points a game.
That arsenal was spearheaded by Dally M Medal winner Tamika Upton – who scored the clash’s first try, her 20th of the season – and player of the year runner-up Julia Robinson.
Broughton said core to Brisbane’s lethal offence had been the bond forged between the group – particularly the spine combination of herself, Upton, Ali Brigginshaw and Jada Ferguson.
“We’ve been together for what feels like forever,” Broughton said.
“It’s such a cool feeling, playing footy is an honour but getting to play some really good footy with some of your best mates is the dream. That’s all you ever want to do.
“The biggest reason why we’re clicking is we’ve got so much love for each other off the field, and we really uphold a standard.
“I definitely can’t shy away from just how close we are off the field, but I definitely think that comes into play when we’re on the field.”
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