Queensland teammate in telling confession about Reece Walsh and daughter ahead of Origin 3

Patrick Carrigan has lifted the lid on how fatherhood has changed Broncos and Maroons teammate Reece Walsh, revealing how daughter Leila has helped him turn a corner in his life. Walsh became a father at just 18, and his relationship with Leila's mum Freda Puru has since ended.

But Walsh and Puru are committed to co-parenting Leila, and they are often spotted at his games. Walsh shared a sweet moment with Leila after being knocked out in Game 1 of the State of Origin series, and the 22-year-old has previously opened up about the impact she has had on his life.

Less than three years ago, Walsh was arrested by police for cocaine possession and his career appeared to be at a crossroads. He was banned two games by the NRL and fined $5000, as well as being placed on a good-behaviour bond by the courts.

But he has since managed to stay out of trouble and his risen to State of Origin superstar for Queensland, as well as helping the Broncos make the NRL grand final in 2023. And according to Carrigan, it's all because of Leila.

Carrigan is a brother figure for Walsh and is extremely close to him and Leila. The pair were housemates when Walsh was coming through at the Broncos, before he moved to New Zealand to play for the Warriors.

Carrigan told the Courier Mail on Sunday: “We have been through the good times and bad times of a lot of on-field footy and off-field personal growth for each other. It’s a genuine relationship we have. He has a heart of gold and I’m a people person. I see that in him and he sees that in me.

“Leila has been the best for Reece. I have seen what he has done for her and what she does for him as a dad. Reece and his mum do their best to provide her with a good life and she is a special young kid.

“Reecey sent me a photo the other day of when she was first born and I had short hair the first time I held her, and now I’ve got long hair and she’s this little girl with a real personality. It’s great to see Reece as a young father and he is a role model for a lot of other dads out there.”

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Reece Walsh opens up in sweet tribute to daughter Leila

Speaking about Leila and fatherhood last year, Walsh said: "She has been awesome for me. She calms me down. Not everything is about footy and a job. When I am in the (Broncos) facility I am the footy player. When I step out and see my little one and my family, I am dad. It is pretty awesome. I am still so young but I feel if it wasn't for her I wouldn't be in this position. She is pretty awesome. I get emotional about it.

"I am lucky to have awesome people around me. When I am stepping out of line they pull me in line real quick. I just want to put my best foot forward with everything I do. If I can do those things, then I will be of value to this team. Just having [Leila] around brings everything back to reality. I enjoy being a dad and she is the best girl in the world. She keeps me grounded too."