Consider this thought experiment: close your eyes and envision the most important person at each of the 17 NRL clubs. Chances are, you will think of a coach – such as Trent Robinson, Wayne Bennett, or Craig Bellamy – or a player – like Latrell Mitchell, Shaun Johnson, or Daly Cherry-Evans. These individuals are typically considered the most significant figures at rugby league clubs.
However, there are exceptions to this rule. The Wests Tigers, for example, are overshadowed by their dysfunctional boardroom, while the Bulldogs’ General Manager of Football steals the limelight. In the case of the Bulldogs, their recent offseason has showcased Phil Gould as the dominant figure, with coach Cameron Ciraldo and captains Reed Mahoney and Matt Burton taking a backseat. Gould’s extensive experience and influential role at the club have positioned him as a key newsmaker in the media, particularly given his high-profile position and public persona. As a result, media coverage has focused largely on Gould, drawing attention away from the players and coaches.
While Gould’s media presence is not inherently negative, the pressure on him will increase if his strategy for the Bulldogs does not yield positive results. His efforts to replicate his success at Penrith within the Bulldogs organization have been subjected to considerable scrutiny, particularly with regards to the team’s roster turnover and recruitment policy. The Bulldogs have made numerous roster changes in recent years, with a total of 26 signings in the past 18 months. The success of these changes remains uncertain, and Gould will bear the brunt of criticism if the team does not perform well in the coming season.
Additionally, the Bulldogs’ current roster composition and recruitment strategy have been called into question, as the team appears to lack clear direction and structure. The abundance of versatile players on the roster has raised concerns about their individual roles and the overall balance of the team. Gould’s involvement in shaping the team’s lineup may ultimately determine the success or failure of the Bulldogs’ upcoming season, and this responsibility places him squarely in the spotlight.
Ultimately, if the Bulldogs experience further setbacks in 2024, the repercussions of their recruitment and roster decisions will inevitably fall on Gould. The team’s success hinges on the effectiveness of these strategies, and the pressure is on Gould to deliver results.