Morgan Knowles Aims to Emulate James Graham’s Warrior Ethos at the Dolphins
New Dolphins recruit Morgan Knowles is ready to forge his own NRL legacy, drawing inspiration from his former St Helens teammate and trailblazing English forward, James Graham. Knowles, a formidable force in the Super League with three consecutive Grand Final victories and a Challenge Cup win under his belt with St Helens, is set to make his NRL debut at lock against the South Sydney Rabbitohs.
Knowles, 28, arrives at the Dolphins with a reputation built on grit, determination, and an unwavering commitment to his team. This ethos was significantly shaped by his time playing alongside the legendary James Graham, affectionately known as “Jammer,” during their successful stint at St Helens. Graham, who had previously excelled in the NRL with the Canterbury Bulldogs and St George Illawarra Dragons, returned to his boyhood club in 2020. Even as he approached the twilight of his storied career, Graham’s impact was profound.
“Jammer had a massive impact on me and my career,” Knowles shared, reflecting on their time together. “I learnt loads off him, directly and indirectly, with how he goes about his business and his mentality of being all-in. That last year at St Helens his body was busted and he was in pain but he’d keep turning up and turning up.”
Knowles vividly recalls Graham’s relentless work ethic, even when battling physical ailments. “He would always do extras at the end of sessions and me and the younger players would try and come off the back of that,” Knowles explained. “A great role model and someone who carried a real aura when you played with him. You don’t want to let your teammates down but you didn’t want to let him down either. You wanted to impress him.”
It’s this very spirit of dedication and relentless effort that Knowles hopes to embody in the NRL. However, the Dolphins didn’t sign him to simply emulate Graham; they acquired him because he already possesses these qualities. Dolphins coach Kristian Woolf, who previously coached Knowles at St Helens, specifically sought to inject a level of toughness, resilience, and commanding presence into his forward pack.
Dolphins co-captain Tom Gilbert noted that Knowles was almost a confirmed acquisition before he even officially signed. “Morgan had to learn our footy as quickly as possible and he picked it up in a few days to be honest,” Gilbert commented. “You just know he is going to have a huge role in the club’s success and he has shown us that both sides of the ball.”
Knowles’ arrival at the Dolphins is a strategic move by Woolf, who understands the player’s strengths and how they align with the team’s aspirations. “I guess the standards that Woolfy has set and the team that he wants probably leans into my strengths,” Knowles stated. “I am an effort-based player. I work hard and keep turning up for the boys. That is what he is trying to instil here as a team.”
He elaborated on the team’s current makeup, acknowledging the existing talent while highlighting the focus on building a strong foundation. “We have got some unbelievable talent and strike, and the lads attacked really well last year, but we want to try and make the foundation of a real hard-working team and defensively getting after it.” This emphasis on defensive grit and consistent effort is precisely what Knowles brings to the Dolphins.
Team News for the Dolphins
In terms of team updates, the Dolphins have named Kurt Donoghoe at hooker. Despite a hamstring strain that has limited his participation in full training, the club expects him to take the field.
Adding further depth to the squad, former Penrith Panthers utility Brad Schneider is set to make his club debut, slotting in at the No. 14 jersey. His versatility will be a valuable asset for the Dolphins as they embark on their NRL campaign.
