Brisbane Broncos superstar Reece Walsh has added an unlikely new role to his growing profile, signing on as an ambassador for NFL powerhouse the Seattle Seahawks.
The Seahawks confirmed the deal last week.
“The Seahawks also announced the first Australian and New Zealand members of the team's 12s Everywhere Ambassador Program, which pairs the team with influential individuals in its global markets to help grow Seahawks fandom and engagement in those markets,” they wrote.
The deal is set to provide a mutual benefit, with Walsh's profile gaining further exposure in the United States. At the same time, the Seahawks look to build their Australian fanbase through one of the NRL's most recognisable young stars.
Walsh isn't the only NRL figure to have joined the program, with Canberra Raiders second-rower Hudson Young also signing on as an ambassador for the Seahawks.
The partnership comes just days before the NFL hosted a historic opening round match in Melbourne, with the San Francisco 49ers taking on the Los Angeles Rams at the MCG.
Walsh was among a host of NRL stars in attendance for the clash, which formed part of the NFL's growing push into the Australian market.
The Broncos fullback's new role also comes amid a significant period for his manager, Nash Dawson, whose management agency helped facilitate the deal with the Seahawks.
Dawson is currently serving a nine-month suspension from communicating with NRL clubs following an altercation with fellow player manager Chris Orr.
His suspension is set to be lifted today, Friday, September 18, ending the period during which he has been unable to communicate directly with NRL clubs.
For Walsh, however, his relationship with the Seahawks represents another opportunity to expand his profile beyond the rugby league field, with the 24-year-old already one of the biggest names in the NRL.
