‘One more 80’: Iro ready to make A-grade premiership dreams come true

Nigel Iro started season 2026 with one major goal in his sights – to push himself to new heights.

A Division 2 player in the Open Men’s North competition with Norths Lakes Kangaroos last year, Iro was presented with an opportunity to do pre-season with the Redcliffe Dolphins in 2026, recruited to the club by Reserve Grade coach Michael Plumb.

By Round 3, he had earned a BRL A-grade debut.

Today, Sunday 20 September, he will run on as lock in the BRL A-grade grand final, aiming to help the Dolphins record back-to-back premierships.

For Iro, pushing himself to new heights has gone better than he could have ever imagined.

“It hasn’t come a shock that we are in the grand final,” Iro said ahead of today’s showdown with the West Brisbane Panthers.

“It’s just that I did not expect to be still playing for this team as we got through the year. We have a great team, a good bunch of boys.

“I just wanted to come over (to Redcliffe) and I thought of it as an opportunity to make a name for myself. Obviously Michael Plumb saw something in me so I thought I’d take the opportunity and try not to let him down.

“I wanted to prove to myself that I can play at this level as well.

“I’ve definitely had a bit more belief in myself, that’s been a big one this year. And all the work from pre-season has helped me too.

“That’s where we created the bond and character we’ve had so far this year.”

Iro, who grew up in New Zealand playing junior rugby league under his dad, said it’s been a whirlwind since he joined the Dolphins.

He’s learnt a lot across the year, but the biggest lesson he’s taken on is just to absorb everything around him.

“It’s definitely been a journey but it’s also been an eye-opener as well with the different level,” he said.

“I’ve probably learnt just to enjoy the ride and enjoy the moments that you have with the boys and the memories you create.

“Not everyone can say they’ve played at this level, played with these people or been coached under the likes of Rob (Tanielu) and Tyson Cleal… it’s the experience that you get from it.”

The 24-year-old already has his sights set on going even further next year, hoping to stay with Redcliffe and push for a Hostplus Cup debut.

But for now his focus is on today and making the most of his premiership dreams.

“I’m definitely excited but also a bit nervous at the same time,” he said.

“I expect (Panthers) to turn up and play. They’ve been one of the hardest teams to play this year but I expect us boys to just turn up with the right attitude.

“We have one more 80 left in us. Hopefully we can bring that trophy back.”