Episode 318

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Published on:

14th Sep 2026

#318 – NRL | CAN PENRITH WIN WITHOUT CLEARY? | Dolphins Make a HUGE Statement

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Episode Summary:

Nathan Cleary’s injury could change the entire NRL premiership race.

Cleary escaped suspension, but a foot injury now hangs over Penrith’s finals campaign. If he’s ruled out, can the Panthers still win the competition without their most important player? Ian and Steve don’t think so; and suddenly the premiership race could be wide open.

We also look at the Dolphins after another massive finals performance and ask whether they’ve now become Queensland’s team. With a home preliminary final at Suncorp waiting, could Broncos, Cowboys and Titans fans jump on the Dolphins bandwagon as they chase their first premiership?

And after going down to the Dolphins at home, can the Warriors regroup and keep their premiership hopes alive? They now face the long road through the finals, starting with Newcastle before potentially having to return to Sydney to face Penrith. Did they blow a golden opportunity?

Plus, we break down all the action from Week 1 of the NRL Finals; what impressed us, what concerned us and what it means heading into the next round.

Ian Hawkins and Steve Cato give their take on the biggest talking points from another huge weekend of NRL.

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.