North Queensland Cowboys’ newest recruit, Reed Mahoney, has sent a clear message to his former club, the Canterbury Bulldogs, as he prepares to make his mark in Townsville. The 27-year-old hooker, known for his relentless work ethic and high endurance, did not hold back when discussing his experiences with the Bulldogs and what motivates him moving forward in the NRL.
When reflecting on the latter rounds of the 2025 season, during which he often found himself coming off the bench while at Belmore, Mahoney was candid about his frustrations.
“I’m an 80-minute player, every week,” Mahoney said emphatically during a press briefing at Cowboys HQ. The Nambour native emphasized that he prides himself on his ability to stay at peak fitness throughout the year, dedicating countless hours in the off-season to maintain the stamina required to play extended, uninterrupted periods on the field.
“But there were some changes at the back end of last year,” Mahoney added, hinting at the factors that influenced his decision to move north.
“Some of those changes were a bit out of my control, that was the coach’s decision (Cameron Ciraldo) so I had to run with it,” he explained. “But if I can take anything out of that situation, it motivates me for the year to come and I’m really looking forward to pushing myself to stay at that level.”
Mahoney’s comments offer a glimpse into his competitive mindset, revealing a player who refuses to let circumstances beyond his control hinder his ambitions. With a reputation for tireless defense, strong ball-handling skills, and leadership qualities on the field, he is now aiming to channel past frustrations into success with the Cowboys.
‘I’m not here to be Reece Robson’
Mahoney’s arrival in Townsville comes at a pivotal moment for the Cowboys, as Reece Robson has departed to join the Sydney Roosters ahead of the 2026 season. Robson’s tenure at the club left big shoes to fill, but Mahoney is unshaken by the expectations and is focused on forging his own legacy.
“Pressure is the environment we live in (as NRL players),” Mahoney said, reflecting on the challenges inherent in professional rugby league.
“Reece has been great for this club for a couple of years now, they’re big shoes to fill, but I’m not here to be Reece Robson, I’m here to be Reed Mahoney, working hard, connecting with people and getting the best out of everyone around me,” he explained.
The hooker’s focus is clearly on the collective success of the team rather than individual comparisons, underscoring his team-first mentality. Mahoney stressed the importance of passion and commitment on the field, highlighting his desire to consistently perform at his best.
“I play with passion, I want to win every game, every minute,” he said, showcasing the intensity he brings to his new club.
Looking ahead, Mahoney is optimistic about the Cowboys’ prospects and believes the team can regain its reputation as one of the NRL’s most formidable sides.
“I see a lot of improvement in us (compared with 2025) and see that we can get back to being like past Cowboys teams and performing at the highest level,” he added.
A Proven NRL Veteran
With a career spanning over 175 NRL games, Mahoney brings a wealth of experience to the Cowboys’ roster. He began his NRL journey with the Parramatta Eels in 2018 before moving to the Bulldogs, where he spent the past three seasons. Over the years, he has developed a reputation as a tough, dependable hooker capable of controlling the pace of a game and providing stability for his team’s spine.
His move to North Queensland marks a new chapter, one where Mahoney hopes to play a pivotal role in strengthening the Cowboys’ squad. With his determination, professionalism, and leadership on display, he is expected to become a key figure in Townsville’s campaign for the 2026 NRL season.
The transition from Belmore to Townsville is not just a change of clubs for Mahoney; it is a chance to demonstrate the kind of endurance and consistency he believes every professional player should maintain. Fans and commentators alike will be watching closely to see how the new recruit adapts to his role and how his presence impacts the Cowboys’ performance.
By openly addressing his experiences at the Bulldogs, Mahoney has shown that he is not afraid to speak his mind while remaining respectful. His comments highlight both his professionalism and his competitive spirit—a combination that could make him one of the standout players of the upcoming season.
With the 2026 NRL season on the horizon, Reed Mahoney’s arrival at the Cowboys promises to bring renewed energy, determination, and skill to a squad eager to return to the top tier of Australian rugby league. His message is clear: he is ready to leave his mark, and he is ready to play every minute of it.
