Kobe Hetherington to Join Manly Until 2029, But Vows to Chase Premiership Glory With the Broncos First
The NRL player market has once again delivered a storyline filled with both ambition and emotion. Brisbane Broncos forward Kobe Hetherington has officially signed a long-term deal with the Manly Sea Eagles, keeping him at Brookvale until the end of the 2029 season. Yet, for all the excitement about his future, Hetherington remains laser-focused on his present: leaving the Broncos with a premiership ring before packing his bags.
The Move That Shocked Brisbane
Hetherington’s move comes as somewhat of a surprise to many Broncos fans. A tough, uncompromising lock forward with a reputation for doing the hard yards, Hetherington has long been considered one of the club’s culture players—those who embody the grit and pride of wearing the maroon and gold.
However, the lure of a new challenge at Manly, coupled with the security of a long-term deal, ultimately proved irresistible. Reports suggest the Sea Eagles made an aggressive push, pitching Hetherington not just as a squad addition, but as a central figure in their future forward pack.
“I love the Broncos with everything I have, but this is about challenging myself in a new environment,” Hetherington explained at the press conference. “Manly showed enormous belief in me, and I’m excited about what’s ahead. But right now, my only goal is to win a premiership with Brisbane before I go.”
Leaving a Legacy at Red Hill
For Broncos fans, Hetherington’s impending departure is bittersweet. On one hand, they understand the realities of modern rugby league and the appeal of securing a long-term contract. On the other, they are losing a player who has come to embody the resilience and toughness the Broncos pride themselves on.
Hetherington has made it clear, however, that he doesn’t want to be remembered as just a departing player. He wants to be remembered as a champion.
“This club has given me everything,” he said. “The mateship, the fans, the coaching staff—it’s been the backbone of my career so far. I want to make sure I leave here on the highest note possible, and that means fighting for a premiership.”
The Manly Perspective
For the Sea Eagles, this signing represents a huge coup. Their forward pack has been in a transitional phase, and Hetherington brings not only aggression and work rate but also the leadership qualities of someone who has learned within the Broncos system.
Manly coach Anthony Seibold praised the acquisition, saying: “Kobe is the type of player who doesn’t take shortcuts. He competes on every play and gives you 80 minutes of effort. That’s the kind of standard we want to set here at Manly. We’re thrilled to have him on board for the long term.”
The move also reunites Hetherington with a handful of former teammates and rivals he knows well, which should ease the transition.
Broncos’ Response
While disappointed to lose him, the Broncos acknowledged Hetherington’s contribution with grace. Club CEO Dave Donaghy said: “Kobe has been a true professional during his time with us. We respect his decision to secure his future at Manly, and we know he’ll give everything for the jersey until his final day here. Our goal remains the same—success in 2025—and Kobe is a big part of that push.”
Coach Michael Maguire echoed the sentiment, insisting Hetherington’s commitment won’t waver. “He’s the kind of bloke you know will give his all, no matter what. That won’t change just because he’s signed elsewhere.”
Fan Reactions
On social media, reactions from Broncos fans were mixed. Many expressed sadness to see him go, praising his work ethic and loyalty during his years at Red Hill. Others applauded him for securing a lucrative, long-term deal that sets up his future.
One comment summed up the sentiment: “We’ll miss Kobe, no doubt. But if he helps bring us a premiership before leaving, he’ll forever be part of Broncos history.”
Eyes on the Premiership
For Hetherington, all roads between now and the end of the season lead to one goal: lifting the Provan-Summons Trophy with the Broncos. Brisbane has come agonizingly close in recent years, and Hetherington believes they have the squad to go all the way in 2025.
“We’ve been building something special here,” he said. “There’s no reason we can’t finish this season as premiers. That would be the perfect way to say thank you to this club, these fans, and my teammates before the next chapter begins.”
Conclusion
Kobe Hetherington’s move to Manly until 2029 is one of the biggest forward signings in recent memory and promises to reshape the Sea Eagles’ pack for years to come. Yet, for now, his heart and focus remain firmly with Brisbane.
If Hetherington can help guide the Broncos to premiership glory before departing, his name will forever be etched in club folklore—not as the player who left, but as the warrior who gave everything to bring glory back to Red Hill.
