🏉 THE COACHING TREE: SEVEN MASTERS WHO’VE SHAPED 44 OF THE LAST 45 GRAND FINALS
In the NRL, greatness isn’t just built on talent — it’s passed down through generations. A remarkable statistic has emerged that highlights the power of influence and mentorship in the sport: seven coaches have been connected to 44 of the previous 45 NRL Grand Finals.
From 1980s legends to modern masterminds, this coaching tree shows just how intertwined the game’s greatest minds have become — shaping philosophies, tactics, and success across decades.
At the roots of this incredible tree are icons like Wayne Bennett, Craig Bellamy, Phil Gould, Tim Sheens, Ricky Stuart, Des Hasler, and Trent Robinson — each having either played under, worked with, or coached alongside one another at different stages of their careers.
Their influence has flowed through assistant roles, mentorships, and player-to-coach transitions, creating a ripple effect that continues to dominate the NRL landscape.
For instance:
Wayne Bennett’s coaching legacy stretches across generations, with his former assistants — such as Craig Bellamy and Jason Demetriou — now leading powerhouse clubs.
Craig Bellamy’s Storm system has produced tactical minds like Adam O’Brien, Stephen Kearney, and Kevin Walters, all of whom have reached major finals.
Phil Gould and Tim Sheens have been key architects of player development and structural strategy, influencing clubs far beyond their own tenures.
This network of influence demonstrates how the NRL’s elite coaching circle continues to evolve while maintaining a shared DNA of discipline, structure, and innovation.
As current coaches like Ivan Cleary and Jason Ryles rise under the guidance of these modern mentors, the coaching tree continues to expand — and the next decade of grand finals may still be shaped by its branches.
From Bennett to Bellamy, Robinson to Ryles — seven great minds, one golden legacy.
