Episode 257

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Published on:

18th Feb 2026

#257 – NRL | Season Preview | Dragons & Eels

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Episode Summary:

The final NRL 2026 preview is personal. Ian Hawkins and Steve close out the series by breaking down their own clubs; the St George Illawarra Dragons and Parramatta Eels; with honest analysis, optimism, and a few brutal truths. The conversation covers youth pathways, forward depth, halves combinations, and the pressure points that could define each side’s season. For the Dragons, it’s about promising young forwards, leadership from Clint Gutherson and Damien Cook, and whether the halves can steady the ship. For the Eels, the spotlight is firmly on Mitchell Moses, emerging juniors, and whether Jason Ryles’ rebuild can accelerate faster than expected.

Beyond club land, the episode dives into State of Origin eligibility changes, potential Blues forward rotations featuring Addin Fonua-Blake and Mitch Barnett, and what the future of the interstate rivalry could look like. SuperCoach value picks, Dally M contenders, trial form reactions, and bold ladder predictions round out a passionate and fan-driven discussion. It’s part analysis, part banter; and a fitting end to a preview series built on opinion, debate, and genuine love for the game.


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.