LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
The Canterbury Bulldogs have started the NRL season with an unbeaten streak, with coach Cameron Ciraldo using creative methods to motivate his players to keep up their impressive form.
After their 32-0 win over South Sydney, the team now sits at the top of the NRL ladder.
This victory marked the first time in the club's history that they have kept two consecutive teams scoreless, following their 20-0 win over Newcastle in the previous round.
The last time the Bulldogs won their first six matches of a season was all the way back in 1938.
To keep his team motivated, Ciraldo rewards them with free coffee, paid for by him, every time they hold a team to nil.
This gesture extends to the coaching team and office staff as well.
Ciraldo has found a way to keep costs down by securing a discounted rate from a loyal Bulldogs fan, even though it still sets him back $300 each time.
Another unique motivating tactic employed by Ciraldo is the use of an Instagram burner account, where he shares posts that inspire his players to break long-standing defensive records and scoring droughts.
Despite their early success, Ciraldo is careful not to get ahead of himself and remains focused on maintaining the team's momentum.
With the Bulldogs aiming to continue their winning streak and potentially replicate the success of the 1938 premiership-winning team, Ciraldo's creative motivational tactics seem to be working well for the team.
By utilizing rewards like free coffee and social media inspiration, the Bulldogs are staying motivated and united as they look to build on their promising start to the season.