In a recent podcast appearance, Brandon Smith, a newly signed Rabbitohs player, expressed his views on the situation unfolding at the Broncos, particularly regarding coach Michael Maguire. In what he described as a direct message, Smith encouraged disgruntled Broncos players to “man up” and fully commit to Maguire’s coaching philosophy.
Smith, who has previously played under Maguire while they were both with the Kiwis, acknowledged that he initially struggled to adapt to the coach’s demanding style. However, he believes that once players let go of their grievances and embraced Maguire’s methods, the team began to see significant improvements. “Once I and other players got over our issues and truly engaged with what he was trying to achieve, we elevated as a team,” Smith reflected.
He suggested that a similar mindset might be necessary within the Broncos. He posited that certain players may not be embracing Maguire’s approach, focusing instead on negatives rather than potential positives. According to Smith, this kind of split mentality within the team can hamper performance and cohesion.
Discussing the rigour of training sessions under Maguire, Smith noted that they often involved longer and tougher workouts than what players experience with other coaches. He acknowledged that this could generate frustration, but maintained that the rewards of dedication are worth the discomfort.
Smith’s comments come at a time when the Broncos face mounting pressure, having found themselves in a position reminiscent of last season, where they ultimately missed the playoffs. Broncos legend Gorden Tallis speculated that Maguire’s job security could be tied to the decisions made by the board that appointed him, suggesting that a sacking would reflect poorly on their judgment.
Moreover, Smith pointed out that issues within the Broncos should largely be attributed to the players themselves. He insisted that if players are dissatisfied with the coaching style, it’s critical to consider their own commitment level. “You’ve got to buy into what his system is,” he stated, underscoring that successful teams require a united front.
In conclusion, Smith’s candid insights highlight the importance of player commitment and unity in a team’s success, particularly when under a challenging coaching regime. As the Broncos strive to regain their footing, the emphasis on collective responsibility and alignment with coaching strategies appears more crucial than ever.