Signed contract: Michael Maguire Broncos has finally secured” fresh signature of super power leading forward” on train and trial contract” he is a head of snake” according to his formal NRL coach….
Under new head coach Michael Maguire, the Broncos will enter a new era in 2025 as they look to reclaim the form that saw them make the 2023 NRL Grand Final and get minutes away from winning their first title since 2006.
After another good season with the Souths Logan Magpies, sources speaking on the condition of anonymity told Zero Tackle that Callum Eggerling has landed a train and trial contract with the club for the upcoming pre-season.
The Brisbane Broncos have secured the services of a utility forward on a train-and-trial contract, a strategic move aimed at bolstering their depth for the upcoming NRL season.
This contract allows a player to train with the first-grade squad and showcase their skills in the hopes of earning a permanent position in the team’s roster.
Train-and-trial contracts are a common pathway for players who haven’t secured full-time NRL deals but possess the potential to make an impact with hard work and talent.
Train-and-trial contracts offer a unique opportunity for fringe players or those returning from injuries or inconsistent performances to reignite their careers. For the Broncos, this strategy has paid off in the past, with notable examples like Karmichael Hunt and Albert Kelly, both of whom were able to secure full-time spots after proving their worth during these trials.
This year, the Broncos have opened the door to several players, including the utility forward, who brings versatility to the team. Utility players are valuable in the NRL because they can cover multiple positions, offering flexibility during a grueling season when injuries and suspensions can deplete squads.
This particular forward will compete with others on similar contracts for a permanent place in the team, using the pre-season period to impress the coaching staff and demonstrate their readiness for top-tier rugby.
The train-and-trial system is not without its challenges. Players typically earn a modest salary—around $1,000 per week—during the trial period and are under immense pressure to perform. However, the reward is significant, as a full contract could offer a pathway to a long-term NRL career.
The Broncos’ decision to invest in these contracts highlights their commitment to finding untapped talent and reinforcing their squad depth ahead of what promises to be a competitive season.
The utility forward will need to demonstrate a strong work ethic, adaptability, and high-level performance in both training and pre-season matches. With one roster spot up for grabs, competition will be fierce. The club’s coaching staff, led by head coach Kevin Walters, will closely monitor the players on these contracts, assessing their physical fitness, on-field awareness, and ability to integrate into the Broncos’ style of play.
In recent seasons, several NRL clubs have used train-and-trial contracts to great effect, with players like Zac Saddler and Chris Smith making valuable contributions after proving themselves in similar circumstances. For the Broncos, this contract represents a low-risk, high-reward strategy, allowing them to assess a player’s potential without committing to a long-term financial agreement immediately.
If the utility forward succeeds in securing a permanent contract, it would be a testament to their perseverance and ability to adapt to the rigorous demands of NRL football.
For the Broncos, adding such a player could provide much-needed versatility, especially during periods of injury or when key players are on representative duties. The upcoming weeks will be crucial for the utility forward as they aim to seize this career-defining opportunity.
