Ben Hunt’s recent return to the Brisbane Broncos on a two-year deal has been accompanied by a significant personal decision: he and his wife, Bridget, are planning to invest approximately $2 million in a property on the Gold Coast. Bridget has been actively searching for homes in areas like Burleigh Heads and Palm Beach, where median house prices are around $1.377 million and $1.756 million, respectively. The couple is currently renting on the Gold Coast and intends to enroll their children in local schools, indicating a commitment to the area.
This planned relocation has raised concerns within the Broncos organization, particularly with new head coach Michael Maguire. The primary issue revolves around the potential impact on team cohesion and performance, as commuting from the Gold Coast to Brisbane could affect Hunt’s integration with the team and his participation in training sessions. The Broncos have previously expressed reservations about players living significant distances from Brisbane, emphasizing the importance of proximity for maintaining team unity and ensuring optimal performance.
Hunt’s return to the Broncos is seen as a strategic move to bolster the team’s experience and leadership, especially with the anticipated suspension of five-eighth Ezra Mam due to an off-field incident. Hunt, who previously played for the Broncos from 2009 to 2017 before joining the St. George Illawarra Dragons, brings a wealth of experience, including 16 Test matches for Australia and 20 State of Origin appearances for Queensland.
While the property investment aligns with the Hunts’ personal and family preferences, it presents a challenge for the Broncos’ coaching staff. Balancing the player’s domestic arrangements with the club’s expectations for player availability and team dynamics will require careful consideration. The situation underscores the broader trend of professional athletes prioritizing lifestyle factors in their living arrangements, which can sometimes conflict with organizational objectives.
