Wayne Bennett, a veteran rugby league coach, has a reputation for making tough decisions about player selections. One notable case is Isaiya Katoa, a promising young talent for the Dolphins and revered by legends like Andrew Johns. Despite receiving high praise throughout the 2024 NRL season, Katoa found himself unexpectedly benched and later dropped entirely just before a crucial finals match against the Knights, leading to the end of the Dolphins’ campaign.
However, Katoa responded with resilience. He reflected on his experience, expressing disappointment but also recognising Bennett’s vision for his long-term development. Katoa attributed his recent lapses in concentration during games to external pressures, but after discussions with Bennett, he shifted his mindset to focus on the fundamentals of his game.
With Bennett’s departure to the Rabbitohs, Katoa has been encouraged by the support of his new coach, Kristian Woolf, and the Dolphins’ management, who assure him that he remains an essential part of the team’s future. As he prepares for the 2025 season, Katoa feels empowered to prove his worth and aims to lead Tonga to victory in upcoming competitions. The Dolphins will open their season against Bennett’s Rabbitohs on March 7, a match that promises to be highly personal for both Bennett and Katoa.