Can the Dragons rise from the ashes? Shane Flanagan is setting the stage for a dramatic turnaround for the St George Illawarra Dragons. Since taking the reins in 2024, Flanagan has been busy reshaping the team, and the pressure is on.
He's not just building a team; he's building a future. The recruitment of stars like Keaon Koloamatangi, Clint Gutherson, and Valentine Holmes has injected fresh talent into the squad. Furthermore, the emergence of young guns such as Hamish Stewart, Toby Couchman, and Dylan Egan has given the Red V faithful something to cheer about. It's a blend of experience and youthful exuberance that Flanagan hopes will bring success.
But here's where it gets controversial... The Dragons haven't tasted finals football since 2018. Flanagan's vision extends beyond just the immediate future. He's committed to long-term success, all while nurturing one of the NRL's youngest teams. He's not just aiming for participation; he's aiming for dominance.
"I feel [like our goal includes] building foundations with some of those young boys to have NRL careers — Hamish Stewart, Dylan Egan, the Couchman's, Jacob Halangahu," Flanagan stated. He's emphasizing the importance of developing young talent, which is the cornerstone of their future success.
Despite the team's youth, the expectation is clear: finals football in 2026. Flanagan, a premiership-winning coach from 2016, knows what it takes to build a winning side. He sees parallels between his current squad and the Cronulla Sharks team that clinched the title. However, he acknowledges that this Dragons team is still developing.
"I suppose you could draw a couple of lines [between the 2016 Sharks and the 2026 Dragons], but we probably didn't have as many young fellas in that ‘16 side," he admitted. The current Dragons team boasts a significant number of young players, roughly 8-10, who will be key to their success.
Flanagan's focus is unwavering: the development of these young players is the key to the Dragons' future. He's hoping for breakout seasons from these young talents, who are already being touted as potential future stars. He's excited about their potential and believes the experience of the veterans will guide them.
The Dragons are undergoing a youth movement, but the pressure to reach the finals remains. What do you think about Flanagan's expectations? Do you believe the Dragons can make the finals by 2026? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
