Broncos re-sign Mead

By PARKER TAMBUA
PAPUA New Guinea Kumul David Mead says he is thrilled to re-sign with the Brisbane Broncos until the end of the 2022 National Rugby League (NRL) season.
Broncos coach Kevin Walters said in a statement after the announcement on Friday that the 32-year-old’s recent form and experience was what convinced the club to offer him an extension.
Mead, who returned from the English Super League for the 2021 season, told The National on Friday that one of his goals at the start of this campaign was to earn a contract extension.
“I wanted to play first grade this year and to show the coaching staff that I could still play in the NRL,” the former Gold Coast Titan and Catalans Dragon said.
“So it’s great to stay with this club for another year.”
Mead said he had built his career around strong values which had helped him stay on top of his game and play consistent football at the elite level since he made his NRL debut with the Titans in 2009.
The former Kumuls captain played for three seasons in the Super League before he re-joined the Broncos this season.
He played with the Titans from 2009 to 2016 before his first Broncos stint in 2017.
“I had some good coaches from a young age who had instilled good values in me,” the Central native said.
“I built my career around hard work and being a team player.
“Those are important and I try to live by these traits every day at home and during training.”
Touted as one of the NRL’s fastest man during his time with the Titans, Mead said he still had the speed despite reaching the latter stages of his career.
“I think I still have it because I have good trainers,” he said.
“They are smart and they know how to get the best out of me.”
While Mead is yet to win an NRL premiership, his highest achievement was the Challenge Cup title win with Catalans in 2019.
“I would love to retire and have a premiership by that time,” he said.
“But if not then life goes on.”