LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
Brisbane's standout forwards, Pat Carrigan and Payne Haas, are preparing to face a Melbourne team in the NRL Grand Final, a situation that could have seen them donning the Storm jersey instead, had circumstances been different.
During his teenage years, Haas was on the verge of signing with Melbourne, waiting at the airport to board a flight when coach Wayne Bennett intervened with a phone call that ultimately altered his path. Since that moment, Haas has committed himself to the Broncos.
"My parents loved the Storm. That's just the way they were," Haas reflected as he anticipates the upcoming Grand Final. "I was pretty close (to signing), but I am glad I didn't. I love the Broncos."
In 2018, Bennett secured Haas with a six-year contract extension, a decision that has proven to be exceptionally rewarding. The 25-year-old reminisced about that pivotal Bennett call during the Broncos' media day on Monday.
"I am just grateful that happened or I wouldn't be on the journey I am now," Haas added, expressing appreciation for his current path with the Broncos.