Episode 144

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Published on:

29th May 2025

#144 – From NRL to Real Life: Jamie Feeney on Coaching with Heart

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Episode Summary: 


In this episode of Sport Is Life, Ian Hawkins sits down with former NRL player, coach, and teacher Jamie Feeney to explore his journey from country kid with no dreams of playing pro sport to carving out a respected NRL career through sheer work ethic. Jamie reflects on the pivotal lessons he learned from legends like Simon Gillies, Brad Clyde, and Craig Bellamy, and the difference simple fundamentals made throughout his journey. 


Now a coach of both players and other coaches, Jamie shares practical, heartfelt wisdom about leadership, emotional control, communication styles, and how caring deeply for people is the key to making them better. From coaching under-6s to working with elite female athletes, Jamie’s stories are raw, funny, and incredibly insightful.  


Whether you’re a parent, teacher, coach, or player—this episode will leave you with powerful tools for growth, connection, and purpose. 


About the Guest: 


Jamie Feeney brings a diverse and high-achieving portfolio career that spans elite sport, education, and leadership. A former professional rugby league player with the Canterbury Bulldogs (1999–2004) and Melbourne Storm (2005–2006), Jamie transitioned seamlessly into coaching and development, building a reputation as one of Australia's most experienced and respected high-performance rugby league coaches. 


With over 18 years of coaching at NRL, NRLW, national, state, and regional levels, Jamie has led and developed elite athletes and programs with a strong focus on performance, culture, and growth. He has held senior leadership roles, including NRL and NSWRL Elite Program Manager, where he influenced talent pathways and high-performance systems across the country. 


In addition to his coaching and sport leadership, Jamie is a fully qualified educator with over a decade of teaching experience. He has also designed and facilitated Sports Academy programs, merging his expertise in coaching and education to develop future athletes and leaders. 


Away from the field, Jamie is a devoted husband and proud father of five. He enjoys playing golf when time allows and values quality time with his friends and family. 


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About the Host:  


Ian Hawkins, host of "Sport Is Life," is dedicated to showing how sports can transform lives. With extensive experience as an athlete, a coach, PE teacher, community volunteer, and manager at Fox Sports, Ian brings a wealth of knowledge to the podcast. His journey began in his backyard, mentored by his older brother, and has since evolved into coaching elite athletes and business leaders. Ian's commitment to sports and personal development is evident in his roles as a performance coach and active community member. Through "Sport Is Life," Ian shares inspiring stories and valuable lessons to help listeners apply sports principles to all areas of life.  


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About the Podcast

Sport Is Life
It's More Than Just A Game
The Sport Is Life podcast explores how sport can positively change your life. Join us as we delve into the powerful life lessons that sport teaches you, lessons that can be applied to every aspect of your life. Host Ian Hawkins shares wisdom and insights gained from a lifetime of experience as an athlete, husband, father, PE teacher, community volunteer, manager at Fox Sports and a performance coach to elite athletes, business owners, corporate leaders, and other coaches. Tune in to hear how sports can provide the tools you need to excel in your personal and professional life. From practical advice to heartfelt stories, the "Sport Is Life Podcast" is your guide to unlocking the potential within you through the power of sport.

Sport is more than just a game; Sport Is Life.

About your host

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Ian Hawkins

Ian Hawkins, host of "Sport Is Life," is dedicated to showing how sports can transform lives. With extensive experience as an athlete, a coach, PE teacher, community volunteer, and manager at Fox Sports, Ian brings a wealth of knowledge to the podcast. His journey began in his backyard, mentored by his older brother, and has since evolved into coaching elite athletes and business leaders. Ian's commitment to sports and personal development is evident in his roles as a performance coach and active community member. Through "Sport Is Life," Ian shares inspiring stories and valuable lessons to help listeners apply sports principles to all areas of life.