Experienced back hopes he’s Mead to measure for Broncos
VETERAN recruit David Mead has opened up on why he has joined the wooden spoon Broncos, in a move reminiscent of a former club great.
The 32-year-old has signed a one-year contract with his former club, following a three-year stint with the Catalans Dragons in the English Super League.
He follows in the footsteps of former Bronco Allan Langer who left Australia to play in the UK competition (in 2000 to 2001) before returning to finish his rugby league career in the 2002 NRL season.
Mead said he was similarly motivated to prove he can still compete at an NRL level.
“That’s a huge motivation,” Mead said.
“Just playing out this year and the way everything happened with COVID, I probably didn’t think I’d have an opportunity to come back to the NRL and I always wanted to.
“I actually couldn’t believe when the opportunity came about.
“My manager spoke to (coach) Kevvie Walters at the back end of the season when I had a month or two left with the Catalans and there was an opportunity there for me and I didn’t hesitate to take it.
“Now I’m here, I have to work hard and try and earn my spot.”
The experienced outside back arrived at Red Hill last week after enduring a two-week quarantine in Perth due to COVID restrictions.
Walters has been training Mead at centre in what shapes to be a handy replacement for the injured Kotoni Staggs – who is unlikely to return from a knee injury for Round 1.
The coach said he was also looking to Mead for his leadership for the younger players.
“We feel we’ve got a lot of good, young players coming through and David is one of those players who can help nurture their training habits, their playing habits,” Walters said.
“He’s a very experienced player and we’re very happy to have him on board.”
Mead was also confident he could handle the NRL’s new rule changes – including the sixagain call – as he prepares for the upcoming season.