The Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs celebrated their 90th anniversary in 2025. Rugby League Zone looked back at the club’s history and named the top five club legends.
CANTERBURY-BANKSTOWN BULLDOGS HISTORY
In 2025, the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs celebrate their 90th anniversary — a storied journey that began in 1935 when the club joined the New South Wales Rugby Football League (NSWRFL). Over the decades, the Bulldogs have become one of Australia’s most iconic rugby league clubs, known for their resilience, passionate fanbase, and a legacy of success that includes eight premiership titles.
Early Years and First Premierships
The Bulldogs, originally nicknamed the “Berries,” wasted little time making their mark. In just their fourth season, they clinched their first premiership (1938), defeating Eastern Suburbs 19–6. They added a second title in 1942 with an 11–9 victory over St George. These early successes established the Bulldogs as a formidable force in the league.
Jim Craig was the coach who led Canterbury to their first premiership, making them the fastest club at the time to win a premiership after joining the competition.
The Dominant 1980s
After a 38-year premiership drought, the Bulldogs entered a golden era in the 1980s. They secured four premierships in this decade: 1980, 1984, 1985, and 1988. This period was marked by a strong team culture and the emergence of key players who would become club legends: Mortimer, Gearin, Anderson.
Perhaps most famous moment of this era was the 1980 Grand Final try by Steve Gearin, where he caught a high kick from Greg Brentnall to score an incredible try. It was moments like this that earned them the nickname “The Entertainers”.
While that is perhaps the most famous nickname, the Bulldogs have also been known as “Dogs of War” for their intense and powerful performances during the ’80s.
Key Coaches of the Successful 1980s Era
The 1980s were the club’s most dominant decade, featuring four premierships and several grand final appearances. Two coaches were pivotal during this golden period.
Ted Glossop (1978–1983) coached Canterbury to the 1980 Grand Final victory, their first premiership in 38 years. Glossop instilled discipline and brought together a new generation of players like Steve Mortimer and Greg Brentnall. His premiership win laid the foundation for the Bulldogs’ dynasty that followed.
Warren Ryan (1984–1987) guided the club to two premierships — in 1984 and 1985— and a Grand Final appearance in 1986. Known for his tactical innovations and emphasis on defensive structure, Ryan was considered one of the game’s intellectuals. He revolutionised how forwards played and brought a hard-nosed edge to the Bulldogs’ identity.
Continued Success in the 1990s and 2000s
The Bulldogs continued their strong performances into the 1990s, making three grand finals and capturing the 1995 premiership (as the “Sydney Bulldogs”) with a 17–4 win over Manly. Their most recent title came in 2004, when they defeated the Sydney Roosters 16–13 in a thrilling Grand Final in which Andrew Ryan famously made a last-ditch tackle to save a try in the dying moments of the game.
The Bulldogs have appeared in grand finals since then but have not been able to capture another premiership.
Looking Ahead
As the Bulldogs commemorate 90 years, they are focused on building a new era of success. Under the guidance of coach Cameron Ciraldo, and the leadership of captain Stephen Crichton, the team is striving to return to its former glory. With a blend of experienced players and emerging talent, the Bulldogs aim to add to their rich history in the coming years.
Phil Gould has reinvigorated the entire club with the help of many people behind the scenes. For the first time in a long time the junior pathways are thriving, ushering in a plethora of juniors and development system players that they hope will continue to thrive for years to come.
Perhaps guilty of trying to replicate some success from earlier eras, the Bulldogs are now forging their own fresh path under Ciraldo.
CANTERBURY-BANKSTOWN BULLDOGS CLUB LEGENDS
Hazem El Masri
“Hazem El Magic” holds a number of club records: most first grade games (317), most tries (159), most goals (891), and most points (2,418). He was a big part of the Bulldogs’ 2004 Grand Final win, scoring eight of their 16 points (a try and two goals): his try in the 52nd minute put the Bulldogs in front after the Roosters led 13-6 at half-time. He scored 342 points (16 tries, 139 goals) in 2004, underlining how important he was to Canterbury’s premiership tilt.
Embed from Getty ImagesTerry Lamb
A dynamic five-eighth, Lamb played 262 games for the Bulldogs and was instrumental in their 1988 premiership win. Lamb appeared to leave the game a winner after the 1995 premiership, but returned in 1996 for 21 games, scoring 25 points (six tries and a field goal). He retired as the great tryscorer for Canterbury at the time (123) as well as leading points-scorer (1,279 – a record soon overtaken by Daryl Halligan).
Embed from Getty ImagesSteve Mortimer
Known for his leadership and tenacity, Mortimer captained the Bulldogs during their successful 1980s period. “Turvey” was a one-club player: 273 games from 1976-88. He was the most capped Canterbury player until El Masri overtook him.
Embed from Getty ImagesSteve Folkes
A hardworking forward, Folkes contributed significantly as both a player and later as a coach, leading the team to the 2004 premiership. Folkes played 13 seasons for the Bulldogs from 1978-89 and 1991 (245 games).
Embed from Getty ImagesChris Anderson
A versatile back, Anderson was a key player in the 1980 premiership team and later returned as coach. Anderson played 14 seasons for the Bulldogs: 232 games from 1971-1984. He coached the Bulldogs from 1990 to 1997, leading the club to five finals series’, two grand finals, and the 1995 premiership.
Embed from Getty Images