Max Plath is gearing up for a thrilling experience as he heads into his first finals series with the Dolphins in the NRL.
An important moment in his career occurred during a match against Wynnum Manly, which played a crucial role in his ascent to professional football.
"It was my first game at lock forward ever. Everything started happening from there," Plath recalled.
After this standout performance, Plath received an offer from the Dolphins the following day. His manager informed him, "the Dolphins are offering you three years."
Plath met with recruitment boss Peter O'Sullivan, signed the contract, and was training with the team within days.
Having previously played in the halves, he found himself with new opportunities, especially with the Dolphins, under coach Ben Te'o, who placed him in the lock position.
He quickly transitioned into a middle forward, gaining essential experience and size through full-time training.
In 2023, Plath was honored with the Peter Leis Medal for being Redcliffe's player of the year and later won the Arthur Beetson Medal, awarded to the Dolphins' best player in the NRL.
Despite facing setbacks, including a second anterior cruciate ligament injury in 2025, his determination remained steadfast. "There was no excuse not to come back fit and firing," Plath asserted.
This year, he made his dream a reality by participating in all three State of Origin matches.
As the Dolphins prepare to face the Warriors in the qualifying finals, Plath confidently assesses their readiness, asserting, "I don't see why it will be an excuse for us."