Isaiya Katoa, co-captain of the Dolphins, has transformed into one of the league's standout young halves. As the Dolphins embark on their inaugural finals series, Katoa reflects on critical moments that shaped his journey.
Two years ago, Katoa faced an unexpected setback when coach Wayne Bennett dropped him before a crucial match against Newcastle. Despite having started 21 consecutive games, Katoa acknowledged he wasn't performing at his best. The Dolphins lost that match, which was essential for their playoff hopes, 14-6.
"That was a massive lesson. I remember us having a conversation throughout the week and honestly, it was the right move by Wayne," Katoa stated about his demotion. He recognized it was pivotal for his growth, saying, "If Wayne didn't do that I wouldn't have developed as much as I have."
Katoa, now 22, chose to join the Dolphins from Penrith as a teenager, influenced by a mentoring conversation with Bennett. "He always had this plan where he said, 'I don't want you to be the best player right now. I want you to be the best player in four or five years time,'" Katoa revealed. This vision instilled confidence in him and his family.
With the guidance of current coach Kristian Woolf, Katoa emphasized the importance of confidence in his progression. "If there is one word to sum up how much Woolfy has done for me, it is definitely to show the confidence in me to go out and be myself," he remarked.
Katoa's aspirations for the Dolphins are clear as they prepare for the finals. "I couldn't be more proud to be a Dolphin and obviously an inaugural Dolphin as well... it is about paying the Dolphins back and making sure I do everything I possibly can to bring a premiership to this club," he said.
The excitement within the Dolphins camp is palpable, and Katoa is eager to make the most of this unique opportunity. "It is very special we get to go to the first finals series and we are very excited," he added.