Payne Haas, football star, discusses the distressing moment he learnt his brother with a disability was given a 24-hour life expectancy, and shares insights into his coping mechanisms amidst his parents' imprisonment.
Payne Haas and the Brisbane Broncos' Pursuit of Premiership Glory
Payne Haas, the unchallenged leader of all props in the NRL, is determined to lead the Brisbane Broncos to premiership glory. The Broncos finished the regular season in fourth place, securing a spot in the upcoming final series.
Haas, a star player for the Broncos, has already achieved a great deal individually and in rep teams. However, a premiership ring remains the one burning desire that has been left unchecked.
"I feel like I've achieved everything individually and in rep teams, but a premiership ring is the one thing that I really want," Haas said. "It would further elevate my status in the NRL and mean the world to me and my family."
Haas's family responsibilities are his primary duty. He is the legal guardian of his younger brothers Hans and Geejay, in addition to raising two children of his own, Lalita and Luckee. Tragedy has struck the Haas family twice, with the passing of Chace Haas, Payne's older brother, in August 2020, and their father, Gregor Johann Haas, currently in custody in Taguig City, facing charges for attempting to smuggle methamphetamine.
The Philippine Court of Appeals has blocked Gregor Johann Haas's release, overturning a previous ruling that recognized him as a Filipino citizen with no pending local charges. Indonesian authorities are pursuing Gregor Johann Haas's extradition, with discussions underway that may involve a swap deal.
Despite the family chaos, Haas remains focused on securing a premiership with the Broncos. "My family has shaped me, but my focus remains on winning a premiership with the Broncos," he said. "I want to instill good morals and respectful behavior in my siblings and children, and I believe that a premiership ring would be a great example for them."
Haas is considered Canberra's greatest threat in the upcoming series, and he will be the general of the forward pack. His determination to return to the premiership and win when the opportunity arises makes him a formidable opponent.
Meanwhile, Taufua faces three counts of manslaughter and multiple driving charges. Police allege Taufua was drunk, unlicensed, and speeding on the wrong side of the road while trying to evade police at the time of a crash that resulted in three fatalities. Taufua's case is ongoing.
Haas's mother, Uiatu 'Joan' Taufua, has been committed to stand trial over a crash that killed three people in Bonogin on the Gold Coast in December 2022. The trial is scheduled to take place at a later date.
Despite the challenges faced by Haas and his family, his focus remains on the field. "I'm just focused on the game and doing everything I can to help the Broncos win," he said. "I know that if we play our best football, we can beat anyone."
As the final series approaches, the Broncos and their fans will be hoping that Haas can help them secure the premiership ring that he desires so much. With his talent, determination, and leadership, he is certainly a player to watch.
