Pedicures, Sledging, and the Bulldogs' Cultural Blueprint

In the second part of the Bulldogs chat, Reed Mahoney joins Paul Kent and Johnny Elias to discuss the personal habits and professional standards that have transformed the club into competition leaders.

The Unlikely Routine: Pedicures and Preparation

The interview opened with a surprising revelation about Mahoney’s preparation. The hooker admitted to a regular habit of getting professional pedicures, a practice he shares with Johnny Elias. Mahoney explained that as an NRL player constantly on his feet, the physical toll on his heels and toes—including cracking and callouses—makes foot care a necessity rather than a luxury.

He joked about the awkwardness of being a professional athlete in a nail salon but praised the benefit of the massage chair and hot water for recovery. Mahoney revealed he even has a do-it-yourself kit at home for "touch-ups" during busy weeks, suggesting that attention to detail off the field is a hallmark of his professional approach.

Ciraldo’s Defensive Conviction

Mahoney reflected on his transition from Parramatta to Canterbury, noting that while the Eels were a perennial finals team, the Bulldogs were a club in the middle of a massive roster overhaul. He credited head coach Cameron Ciraldo with holding firm on his defensive systems during a difficult 2023 season.

According to Mahoney, there was a point where Phil Gould suggested Ciraldo might need to simplify the game plan because the players weren't grasping it. Ciraldo refused, arguing it was better to set the high standard and find out who could meet it rather than lowering the bar. This conviction eventually led to the system "clicking" at the back end of last year, providing the platform for their 2024 success.

The Art of the Sledge

The conversation turned to the mental side of the game, specifically "sledging" and on-field gamesmanship. Mahoney admitted to being a vocal presence on the field, though he insisted his comments are designed to get himself into the game mentally rather than purely to insult others.

The panel reminisced about legendary sledgers like Benny Elias and Ricky Stuart, with Kent recounting how Stuart once successfully baited opposition players into being sent off. Mahoney noted that while "scrum chat" is often hilarious and personal, there is an unspoken rule that whatever is said stays on the field. He emphasised that as long as the banter doesn't breach community standards regarding race or personal lifestyle, it remains a vital part of the NRL's competitive fabric.

Origin Hopes and the Queensland Spirit

As a Queenslander, Mahoney discussed the deep emotional connection to the Maroons jersey. He shared stories of being in camp as a 20th man and the impact of hearing legends like Chris Close and Billy Slater speak about what it means to represent the state.

Mahoney recalled the famous 1995 series where an unheralded "Neville" Queensland side swept the Blues. He described the "goosebumps" created when former players show genuine vulnerability and tears when discussing the jersey, a passion he hopes to bring to the field if called upon to replace or support Harry Grant in the upcoming series.

Building a Long-Term Identity

Despite the Bulldogs leading the competition at the time of the interview, Mahoney remained grounded. He acknowledged that while the team has found different ways to win, they are yet to play their "best football." He highlighted the importance of culture as a "weapon," noting that the club has prioritised natural connection through family days and involving partners and children in the training environment.

Kent observed that the current squad has refound the "old Canterbury mentality"—a gritty, work-hard approach that had arguably been lost in previous years. Mahoney agreed, stating that the fittest part of a player needs to be "between the ears," and that the squad's mental resilience will be their greatest asset as they move toward the finals.

Watch the full chat on Fanatics TV.