Broncos trying to tie up Hodges and Tate

Broncos officials will begin their push to re-sign star backs Justin Hodges and Brent Tate next week after the pair return from Brisbane's World Club Challenge assault.

Player manager George Mimis yesterday revealed he would begin talks with Broncos management over the duo's respective futures at a meeting next Tuesday.

Mimis said the meeting would act as the pair's first point of call before a decision was made as to whether they would realistically explore their options elsewhere beyond 2007.

Tate has already held preliminary talks with the Australian Rugby Union about a possible switch of codes next season.

Hodges and Tate, who both turn 25 this year, are currently in the United Kingdom preparing for the Broncos' clash with St Helens at Bolton's Reebok Stadium early on Saturday morning Australian time.

"In the first instance we will have the Broncos discussion. But there would be significant interest should they wish to look around," said Mimis.

Asked if a switch to rugby union was a realistic option for Tate, who has never played the 15-man game, Mimis said: "You never say never.

"You obviously need to explore all the options out there. Brent's had a marvellous career and achieved virtually everything he can in rugby league."

Among other Broncos coming off contract at season's end are Shaun Berrigan, Gold Coast-born flyers Darius Boyd and Steve Michaels, representative forwards Sam Thaiday, Dane Carlaw and Brad Thorn and teenagers Greg Eastwood and Joel Moon.