Episode 251

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Published on:

5th Feb 2026

#251 – NRL | Season Preview | Bulldogs, Sharks, Dolphins & Knights

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Episode Summary:

The NRL season is almost here, and Ian Hawkins and Steve continue their 2026 season preview series with one of the most opinionated episodes yet, breaking down the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs, Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks, Dolphins, and Newcastle Knights. The conversation dives into leadership, roster balance, injury concerns, and the pressure points that could define each club’s season, with some bold calls around overrated and underrated players, ladder positions, and who might slide out of finals contention.

The episode also goes deep on mental edge, development timelines, and how team identity shapes long-term success. The Dolphins are tipped as a genuine riser if fitness holds, the Sharks are questioned on whether consistency is enough to take the next step, the Bulldogs’ spine remains the big watch, and the Knights face a tough rebuild year despite exciting young talent. As always, SuperCoach insights, Dally M predictions, Origin smokies, and honest fan-challenging opinions round out a preview designed to spark debate as kickoff approaches


About the Host:


Ian Hawkins 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.