In a strategic move that could redefine the dynamics of the National Rugby League (NRL), South Sydney Rabbitohs coach Wayne Bennett has successfully recruited Corey Bocking, a pivotal trainer from the Penrith Panthers. This acquisition marks a significant shift as Bennett aims to revitalize the Rabbitohs’ dressing room staff following a challenging season.
Bocking, who has been instrumental in the Panthers’ physical preparation over recent seasons, played a crucial role in maintaining player fitness during Penrith’s premiership successes. His expertise is expected to bring a fresh perspective to the Rabbitohs, who have been grappling with a series of injuries that hampered their performance last season.
Controversy and Consequences
Despite his professional achievements, Bocking’s tenure at Penrith was not without controversy. Earlier this year, he was involved in a contentious incident when he inadvertently obstructed Titans kicker Jayden Campbell during a conversion attempt. The incident, which led to Campbell missing the kick, drew widespread attention and criticism.
Fox Sports commentator Andrew Voss was among those who publicly criticized Bocking, as boos resonated throughout the stadium. In response, Panthers coach Ivan Cleary defended his trainer, but the incident resulted in significant backlash against the club. The NRL imposed a five-game suspension on Bocking and fined the Panthers $50,000, marking the club’s most substantial penalty since breaching Covid biosecurity measures.
Revamping the Rabbitohs’ Staff
With Bocking now joining the Rabbitohs as the head of strength, conditioning, and sports science, the club is undergoing a significant transformation. Jack Milligan has been promoted to high-performance manager, succeeding Trent Elkin. Rabbitohs CEO Blake Solly expressed gratitude to departing staff members, acknowledging their contributions and wishing them success in future endeavors.
Adding to the overhaul, former Dragons head of performance, Davis Theobald, has been appointed as the Rabbitohs’ new rehabilitation physiotherapist. This strategic recruitment is part of a broader effort to address the injury crisis that plagued the team during Bennett’s first season back at the helm.
Addressing the Injury Crisis
Wayne Bennett described the 2025 injury crisis as the most severe he had encountered in his 38-year coaching career. At one point, the Rabbitohs had half of their 30-man squad sidelined for a match against the Brisbane Broncos. Only five players managed to participate in more than 20 games throughout the season.
Key players such as Cameron Murray, Cody Walker, Campbell Graham, and Latrell Mitchell were notably absent for significant portions of the season. Mitchell, in particular, only appeared in 11 games, underscoring the impact injuries had on the team’s performance.
“We have the utmost confidence in our football department coaches and staff, led by Wayne, to return the club to the right end of the competition ladder,” said Blake Solly, Rabbitohs CEO.
Looking Ahead to 2026
The Rabbitohs are optimistic about the upcoming season, with Bennett’s strategic staff changes aimed at reversing the club’s fortunes. Players are set to return to training in early November, with preparations for the 2026 premiership campaign already underway.
In addition to the staff revamp, the Rabbitohs have secured a two-year contract with playmaker Jayden Sullivan, who was released from his Wests Tigers contract. Sullivan, who played 13 games for the Rabbitohs in 2025, will serve as a backup to Walker and Jamie Humphreys, bolstering the team’s depth.
As the Rabbitohs gear up for the 2026 season, the club’s management and fans alike are hopeful that these strategic changes will lead to a successful campaign, bringing the team back to the forefront of the NRL competition.
