Manly Sea Eagles

Almost two decades after a lap of honour with his legendary father, Bayley Sironen tasted victory at the family’s spiritual home. Two years on, he’s at the Rabbitohs for the sake of his career.

'It’s confusing for many people, and sometimes even me.' Will and John Hopoate could hardly be more different in terms of temperament. How did this happen? Will explains.

At age three, Boyd Cordner followed his dad out for a road run. He lasted nearly 5km. Not long after, he suffered the tragic loss of his mum, which will still be in his heart and mind after tonight's grand final.

Matt Ikuvalu made his NRL debut a week after working in a shoe store and long after most players give up. Before that, he worked with his father – a back-breaking life that his dad desperately wanted him to escape.

As an Aussie with Italian heritage, only three things matter to Nissan Motorsport Supercars ace Michael Caruso. With the FIFA World Cup on, his life is one hell of a juggling act right now.

‘Listen: we don’t think you’re within the top 100 players in your position and we’re going to terminate you from the squad.’ Shaun Kenny-Dowall took this brutal setback at age 15 and did something extraordinary.

After 477 games of professional rugby league, Steve Menzies felt suddenly jealous of people who knew their direction in life. His breakthrough came when he realised it's not weakness to seek advice.

Joel Thompson was breaking-and-entering and in trouble with the cops. He turned his life around and inspired many to do the same. Now he wants to help save his younger brothers in juvenile detention.

He considered leaving the game over a salary cap drama. He thought he was dying after a terrifying pre-season episode. He has overcome it all to achieve a significant milestone.

Jorge Taufua was raised by a hard-working, single mother. She has since suffered three strokes. Jorge is there for her as she was for him.