In the world of rugby league, the 2026 season has been a rollercoaster of surprises and insights. Twelve months ago, the Knights were at the bottom of the league, but under the guidance of coach Justin Holbrook, they've transformed into a force to be reckoned with. Holbrook's ability to turn average players into stars is nothing short of remarkable, and it's no wonder he's in the running for Coach of the Year. But what makes this story even more fascinating is the underlying theme of stupidity and its role in success. The Knights' journey from the cellar to the finals is a testament to Holbrook's understanding of the unique characteristics of the team and his ability to coach stupidity out of his players. This raises a deeper question: how do we coach stupidity out of rugby league players? The 2025 Coach of the Year, Ricky Stuart, and premiership winner Michael Maguire, on the other hand, have had a season of underperformance. Maguire's Broncos have struggled, and despite his efforts, they've failed to find a unifying explanation for their poor form. This leads us to the elusive secret of coaching success: how to coach stupidity out of rugby league players. But the story doesn't end there. The NRL's push for a third-place playoff game, led by Peter V'landys, raises questions about the league's commitment to a level playing field. If the NRL had no salary cap, would it look much different? Would the best-resourced clubs still win all the titles? The real driver is not what would make a stronger and fairer competition; it's what makes good business sense. And if the world's big sports leagues are any guide, with no salary caps and monopolies for the rich, then we might understand the NRL's lack of real commitment to a level playing field. The average rugby league team has as many as eight separate corporate sponsors on its jersey and shorts, which raises the question: what is it about vice and sports? Why are gambling, alcohol, and tobacco companies so drawn to the celebration of healthy activity? The answer lies in the male demographic and the desire for attention. But it's not just vice peddlers crying for attention; it's every kind of peddler. The NRL's jersey sponsors are a testament to the league's commercialism and the need to leave fans wanting more. In conclusion, the 2026 season has been a fascinating journey of surprises and insights. From the Knights' transformation under Holbrook to the struggles of Stuart and Maguire, and the NRL's push for a third-place playoff game, there's a lot to reflect on. The story of stupidity and its role in success is a reminder that sometimes, it's the little things that make the biggest difference. And as we look to the future, the NRL's commitment to a level playing field remains a question mark. But one thing is certain: the show must go on, and fans will always want more.
