LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
The first week of the NRL finals has exceeded expectations, showcasing thrilling matches that reignite passion for rugby league.
My very first encounter with rugby league dates back to the 1980s, but my deep affection truly blossomed in 1992 when I participated in my first significant game.
This love was solidified when I witnessed the World Cup Final that same year, where Great Britain faced Australia. The heart-wrenching performance by Steve Renouf, who would later become a personal friend, left a lasting impression.
Although my enthusiasm for the sport has waned at times, the excitement from this weekend's games had me yelling at the screen, reacting to missed opportunities, cheering for tries, and marveling at incredible moments captured on television.
The thrilling golden point defeat of the Canberra Raiders by the Brisbane Broncos had my heart racing-I felt like a teenager reliving those exhilarating experiences!
However, as quickly as the excitement returned, so did the analytical mindset of a coach, eager to dissect and understand the underlying factors contributing to the action on the field.