PAYNE HAAS LIFTS LID ON KEVIN WALTERS CHAT, SENDS STRONG MESSAGE TO CRITICS AFTER SHOCK SAMOA SWITCH
Payne Haas has broken his silence on his high-profile international switch to Samoa, addressing the backlash, revealing details of a crucial conversation with Kevin Walters, and making it clear why the decision was personal.
The 25-year-old prop, long regarded as one of the NRL’s most dominant forwards, confirmed the move last week after months of speculation. Haas, who has previously represented Australia, said the choice had been brewing for years, with his multicultural roots playing a defining role.
Haas Opens Up on Decision
Speaking on Nine’s 100% Footy, Haas explained that the switch to Samoa wasn’t a snap decision but one he had been weighing heavily since facing Samoa in an earlier international clash.
“The idea has been in my head for about two years,” Haas revealed. “When I played against Samoa, I felt something different. It gave me a lot to think about.”
Rumors first emerged in April that Haas was considering the move, sparking immediate debate among fans and pundits. While many supported his right to represent his heritage, others criticized the trend of players shifting allegiances. By the time Haas went public, Walters had already stepped in as Kangaroos coach, replacing Mal Meninga, but Haas’ mind was already made up.
Walters Conversation Revealed
The Broncos enforcer admitted that Walters did reach out to have a sit-down chat once he learned of the situation, but by then it was “too late.”
“I made my decision before I knew Kevvie was coaching,” Haas said. “Then obviously he became coach and told me he wanted to sit down and talk about it. I knew what it was about.
“But to be fair to Kevvie, he handled it so well. He said our relationship wouldn’t change if I decided to go with Samoa. I’ve got nothing but love and respect for Kev. I was honest with him, and he respected that.”
For Haas, that mutual respect was vital. Having spent years under Walters at club level with the Broncos, the bond between them was already strong. He said it meant a lot that Walters didn’t attempt to pressure him into staying loyal to Australia, instead allowing him to choose what felt right for his family and cultural identity.
Facing the Critics
Despite the respect he has for Walters, Haas admitted the criticism from outside voices hasn’t gone unnoticed. Some believe the ease with which players can switch between countries damages the integrity of international rugby league.
Haas, however, had a pointed message for those critics.
“I’m multicultural,” he said firmly. “I’ve got Samoan, Filipino, and Swiss heritage. I’m proud of all of them. People who criticize don’t understand what it’s like to be in my shoes. I know who I am, and I know what this means to me and my family.”
The prop stressed that the decision wasn’t about abandoning Australia, but about embracing his Samoan roots in a way that felt authentic.
Family, Culture, and Heart
Born in Newcastle to parents with diverse backgrounds, Haas said he has always felt a strong connection to Samoa. Representing the nation on the international stage, he believes, is an opportunity to honor his family and culture.
“This decision was about my heart,” Haas explained. “It was about representing where I come from and the people who have shaped me. I respect Australia and everything it has given me, but this was a chance to do something deeply meaningful.”
Possible Domino Effect
Haas’ switch could have wider implications for international rugby league, with reports surfacing that other big names are also weighing similar moves. Tino Fa’asuamaleaui and Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow, two of Queensland’s brightest stars, are both believed to be considering a Samoan switch as well.
Haas admitted that conversations have taken place among them but refused to elaborate on the details.
“We’ve had talks, yeah,” he said. “But I won’t go into detail about what we’ve said. At the end of the day, those boys need to follow their own hearts and do what feels right for them.”
If either Fa’asuamaleaui or Tabuai-Fidow were to join Haas, Samoa’s forward pack and backline strength would immediately rival the biggest international nations, potentially reshaping the balance of power in Test football.
Making Peace with the Fallout
The Broncos powerhouse knows that his decision won’t please everyone. He’s heard the debates, seen the headlines, and understands the controversy around eligibility rules. Still, he insists that no outside noise will change his perspective.
“I can’t control what people say,” Haas admitted. “What I can control is being true to myself and being proud of who I am. At the end of the day, that’s what matters most.”
For Walters, who now must plan for an Australian squad without one of the game’s premier forwards, the blow is softened by the mutual respect he and Haas maintain. For Samoa, the switch represents a massive boost ahead of upcoming international tournaments.
Looking Ahead
Haas’ decision arrives at a critical juncture in rugby league, with more players from multicultural backgrounds exploring their heritage and opting to represent their families’ nations of origin. It reflects a broader trend in the game, where identity and connection sometimes outweigh tradition and expectation.
As Samoa eyes future competitions, Haas is expected to play a central role in their pack, bringing size, power, and leadership to a team brimming with rising talent. For the player himself, it’s a chance to honor his roots and inspire future generations of players with mixed heritage to embrace their backgrounds proudly.
“Hopefully, this shows young kids from multicultural backgrounds that it’s okay to be proud of all parts of who you are,” Haas said. “You don’t have to choose one identity—you can honor all of them.”
