LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
The Canterbury Bulldogs' rebuilding strategy has received a significant boost, with both general manager of football Phil Gould and head coach Cameron Ciraldo securing new contracts that extend their tenures until the end of 2031.
Ciraldo's re-signing entails a four-year extension, while Gould has inked a five-year deal. Since Gould's appointment as general manager, the Bulldogs have undergone a substantial transformation.
Ciraldo joined the team in 2023. Although his initial season did not yield favorable results, it proved worthwhile for the supporters. The Bulldogs made a return to finals football last year and have now progressed into the top four for the current season.
Despite experiencing some turbulence in the latter half of the 2025 season, especially concerning certain selection and recruitment decisions, the Bulldogs have still managed to secure a third-place finish. They are set to face the Melbourne Storm in a qualifying final this weekend, with promises of either a home semi-final or preliminary final in the near future.
Last season, the Bulldogs ended up in sixth position but faced elimination in the first round of the finals against the Manly Sea Eagles.
Initially contracted through to 2027, Ciraldo has now completed three seasons, achieving two finals appearances during his tenure. Both he and Gould, who has been at the helm of the football program, have been re-signed through to 2031.