In a move set to expose the Club's Academy to true Bulldogs spirit and values, Club legends Josh Jackson and Steve Turner have been announced as the 2024 Jersey Flegg and SG Ball Cup Coaches.
Josh Jackson played a leading role in the Jersey Flegg squad's charge to Premiership glory last season, while Steve Turner worked closely with Cameron Ciraldo and the NRL squad.
Steve Turner ('The Zap') played a total of 161 matches (Panthers 2, Storm 105, Bulldogs 54) after making his debut for the Panthers against the Storm in round 23 of season 2002. In 2010, he joined the Bulldogs to replace retiring veteran Hazem El Masri bringing State of Origin and Premiership experience to the Club.
In 2013, he medically retired due to injury but much like Josh Jackson, he never left the Club, transitioning from the playing field to an administrative role.
Josh Jackson played 11 seasons of top-flight rugby league for the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs from 2012 - 2022 and ran out on 241 occasions for the Club. He also joined the Bulldogs in 2010 where he played two seasons for the Club's NYC team (competition now replaced by the Jersey Flegg Cup) and 50 games before being elevated to NSW Cup and the NRL in 2012.
He quickly earned a reputation as an uncompromising, rugged and hard-working second rower and would go on to be named Captain in 2018 after the departure of James Graham, selected for his attitude to training and match day.
In the pre-season of 2023, Josh announced his retirement from professional rugby league but agreed to terms to stay on at the Club in an official capacity as a Strength and Conditioning who was looking to give back to up-and-coming players through the Bulldogs Academy.
Now both Turner and Jackson will turn their attention to shaping the next generation of Bulldogs. Both men have been praised for their embodiment of true Bulldogs values, known and respected for always putting the Club and the team first:
"The professionalism and work ethic that both of these men bring to our Bulldogs pathways is outstanding and second to none," said General Manager of Football, Phil Gould.
"I love the fact that Bulldogs are coaching Bulldogs."
