Coach’s Corner: Rob Tanielu
As season 2026 continues to get underway, the coaches of the Redcliffe Dolphins’ Hostplus Cup, BRL and junior representative teams will share insight into their squads and expectations for the year ahead.
In the final edition of Coach’s Corner, Brisbane Rugby League A Grade coach Rob Tanielu talks about taking on the BRL reigning premiers and his role in his players’ development.
Coaching history
Tanielu began his coaching journey at the community level with Aspley RLFC, where he coached teams from U7s through to Opens. From there he progressed into the elite pathways system with the Norths Devils, coaching in the Cyril Connell Cup, Mal Meninga Cup and U20s programs.
In 2022, an opportunity opened within the Norths Devils Hostplus Cup program. After coaching the Mal Meninga team, Tanielu moved into an assistant coach role, working alongside co-coaches Ben King and Kevin Neighbour. That season culminated in a Hostplus Cup premiership in 2022.
In 2023, he continued his development as assistant coach, working under new head coach Dave Elliott. Seeking further growth and a new challenge, he accepted an opportunity in 2024 to work as assistant coach within the Hostplus Cup program under Ben Te’o at the Redcliffe Dolphins and then continued in the role in 2025, working with Eric Smith.
Alongside Tanielu’s club commitments, he has also been involved in the Queensland pathways system, serving as assistant coach and head coach for the U17 City Boys teams in 2023 and 2024. He is also an assistant coach with the Fetū Samoa Women’s National Rugby League Team, preparing for the 2026 Rugby League World Cup later this year.
How are you feeling ahead of 2026?
Rob: I’m really excited and privileged to have the opportunity to coach our BRL A Grade team, who were last year’s champions. It’s a great challenge, and I’m looking forward to working with the squad as we continue to grow, strengthen our connections and build on the combinations that made them successful.
How is the squad shaping up?
R: Following our pre-season player reviews, the feedback across the squad has been really positive. The group has made strong improvements in their fitness on the field, strength in the gym, and their overall skill level and game awareness. The work has been done, and now it’s about bringing it all together and continuing to build as a team moving forward.
What are your goals for the team this year?
R: I think if you asked every coach, they’d probably give the same answer – to win the competition. That’s the end goal, but for us to be in that position, we need to focus on what we can control and trust our process.
What is your coaching philosophy?
R: My coaching philosophy has always been centred around player development. Improving core skills, physical attributes and building strong relationships with players. For me, it’s always person first, player second.
What do you personally hope to get out of the year ahead?
R: I want to see our players enjoying their footy, achieving great things both on and off the field, and making the most of the experiences and opportunities that come their way. It would be great to see all four senior teams – NRL, HPC, BRL and Reserves – competing in finals this season.