Kurt Donoghoe's improved discipline has helped turn the Dolphins' 24-year-old interchange weapon into a preliminary-final contender.
The Rugby League Players Association named him the NRL's best bench player in its 2026 dream team, following a vote by fellow players.
Usually entering after 20 minutes, Donoghoe covers lock and ball-playing half, bringing skill, intensity and power to matches.
His earlier career was less controlled. He was charged 10 times in 54 NRL appearances and served six weeks of suspension during 2024.
Wayne Bennett was particularly unhappy with his penalties, ambitious passing and disciplinary problems.
"Wayne gave me a few sprays about giving away penalties, flick passes, no-look passes ... all the stuff in my game that is a bit different to everyone else that he didn't like," Donoghoe told AAP.
"He especially didn't like me getting suspended for six games. At the time I had my tail between my legs but now I can look back and have a laugh and know it has helped shape me to become the player I am today."
Donoghoe has since been fined seven times, though only twice this season, and none of his charges has brought a suspension under Kristian Woolf.
He credits greater experience for helping him choose his moments, while teammate Herbie Farnworth calls him "tough as nails, silky skills". Woolf describes him as "unique".
After joining from the CQ Capras on a train-and-trial deal, Donoghoe earned a top-30 contract. The Dolphins now face the Sydney Roosters at Suncorp Stadium on Friday.
"A lot of us started together at the Dolphins and we've learned at the same rate and evolved into the NRL players we are today. I think that is going to make a really good argument for us to win this comp."