In a shocking turn of events, the NRL landscape is witnessing a seismic shift as clubs prioritize team culture over individual talent. The recent high-profile exits of Josh Addo-Carr from the Bulldogs, Ben Hunt from the Dragons, and Clint Gutherson from the Eels have sent shockwaves through the league, signaling a new era where clubs are willing to let go of star players in favor of building a cohesive team culture.
The Importance of Culture in the NRL
As the saying goes, “culture eats strategy for breakfast.” In the high-stakes world of the NRL, this adage has never rung truer. Clubs are beginning to recognize that assembling a roster of the most talented players does not guarantee success on the field. Instead, it is the intangible elements of team culture – the shared values, beliefs, and behaviors – that lay the foundation for sustained success.
Legendary coach Wayne Bennett, who has guided multiple teams to premiership glory, once said, “The best teams I’ve coached have always had the best culture. It’s not about the talent, it’s about the character of the players and their willingness to put the team first.”
“Club First, Team Second, Individual Third.”
– Mantra displayed at Canterbury Bankstown Bulldogs headquarters
The Fall of Josh Addo-Carr
The Bulldogs’ decision to tear up Josh Addo-Carr’s contract after he failed a roadside drug test and allegedly lied about it to club officials is a prime example of a club prioritizing its cultural standards over an individual’s talent. Addo-Carr, one of the league’s most electrifying wingers, found himself on the outer after placing his own interests above those of the team and the club.
Bulldogs football boss Phil Gould, who had publicly supported Addo-Carr before the full extent of the situation came to light, was left with no choice but to take a hard-line stance. The club’s board made it clear that Addo-Carr’s actions were a serious breach of the club’s values, and that no player, regardless of their on-field prowess, was above the team.
The Hunt for a New Beginning
Meanwhile, the Dragons’ decision to release Ben Hunt from the final year of his contract is another instance of a club recognizing the importance of having a fully committed squad. Hunt, the Dragons’ highest-paid player and captain, had been open about his desire to leave the club for several years. Coach Shane Flanagan, in his second year at the helm, knew that having a captain whose heart wasn’t fully in it would be detrimental to the team’s culture and performance.
By allowing Hunt to move on, Flanagan has sent a clear message that the Dragons are committed to rebuilding their culture from the ground up. While they may not find a halfback of Hunt’s caliber for the 2025 season, they will have a player who is fully invested in the club’s future and ready to lead by example.
The Eels’ Gutsy Call
In a similar vein, the Parramatta Eels’ decision to part ways with long-serving fullback Clint Gutherson is a bold move aimed at revitalizing the club’s culture. Gutherson, the backbone of the Eels during their recent tumultuous years, has been told by incoming coach Jason Ryles that he is free to explore other options.
Ryles, who is tasked with rebuilding the Eels after their fall from grand finalists to wooden spoon contenders, understands that tough decisions need to be made to create a winning culture. By not guaranteeing Gutherson a spot in his future plans, Ryles has put the entire squad on notice that past performances will not be enough to secure a place in the team.
The Balancing Act of Talent and Culture
While the moves made by the Bulldogs, Dragons, and Eels may seem drastic, they highlight the delicate balance that coaches must strike between nurturing talent and maintaining a strong team culture. Players who enjoy rapid success can easily fall into the trap of believing they are bigger than the team. However, the true measure of a champion is their ability to recognize their role within the larger club hierarchy and contribute to the best of their abilities.
“The main trait we were looking for was men with strong character. Men who were willing to work hard, work together and trust in our process.”
– Bulldogs coach Cameron Ciraldo on player recruitment
As the NRL continues to evolve, clubs that prioritize culture over individual talent may face short-term challenges on the field. However, by laying a solid foundation built on shared values, trust, and commitment, these clubs are positioning themselves for long-term success. The exits of Addo-Carr, Hunt, and Gutherson serve as a reminder that no player is bigger than the game, and that the strength of a club lies in its collective identity.
In the end, the clubs that will stand the test of time are those that foster a culture of resilience, accountability, and unwavering dedication to the team’s cause. As the great Jack Gibson once said, “Winning starts in the front office.” And it seems that the front offices of the NRL are finally beginning to understand the true value of a winning culture.
