In the peak condition of his career, Josh Curran has shared how a straightforward pre-season chat with coach Cameron Ciraldo has positively impacted his game.
Curran’s early years in first-grade were tumultuous, struggling to secure consistent playing time behind a seasoned forward pack at the Roosters in 2019.
However, his chance to become a key player for the Bulldogs proved to be a turning point, leading Curran to adopt a more “serious” attitude towards enhancing his physical fitness.
For the Dogs forward, the pre-season camp is one of the most demanding challenges upon joining a new team, yet it was crucial in his development into an 80-minute player.
Since arriving at the club ahead of the 2024 season, the 25-year-old has undergone an impressive transformation, shedding nearly 13 kilograms through his relentless effort across two pre-seasons.
Curran revealed that Ciraldo encouraged him to slim down before last season in order to maximise his effectiveness on the field.
“In my first pre-season with the Dogs, I shed six kilos, and this pre-season I’ve lost another six,” he told Wide World of Sports’ Freddy and the Eighth.
Josh Curran of the Bulldogs. Getty
“During pre-season, I arrive at training around 7am and some days I won’t get home until 5:30 or 6pm,” he said.
“Our group and coaching staff ensure that we approach training with dedication, and it truly yields results.”
“I’ve lost 13 kilos. I was probably around 105 [kilograms when at the Roosters]… It’s a bit embarrassing.”
“Joining the Dogs last year, Cirro (Cameron Ciraldo) sat me down and emphasised that pre-season would be beneficial for me. To be honest, it’s likely the fittest I’ve ever felt in my career.”
The powerhouse forward played a crucial role in the Bulldogs’ finals campaign last season, and he admitted that in his younger days, selection for representative teams was due more to his innate talent than his work ethic.
To progress to the next level in his NRL career, he realised he needed to put in more effort, setting a goal to lose weight as a part of that commitment.
“I had a challenging beginning to my career, but it’s been a journey I truly appreciate,” he said.
“In my youth, I relied heavily on my talent rather than hard work.”
“Although I always put in effort, I was often chosen based on my skill. I have been taught to play various positions.”
“(However) as a young kid, I believed that as long as I trained hard, I could indulge in junk food, and clearly, that isn’t the case.”
“Last year marked a turning point as I truly committed to adopting healthier habits. As I mature, I grasp these principles more effectively.”
“Training plays a significant role in my progress, but altering my diet has been my most substantial change. I’m now focusing on whole foods, eating healthy meals, and it has made a notable difference.”
“I’m now able to play 80 minutes and I feel capable of pushing harder for longer. My strength on the field has improved. I’m feeling great at the moment.”
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Roosters captain Boyd Cordner and coach Trent Robinson celebrate their 2019 NRL grand final victory. Getty
Curran disclosed that he draws motivation from the esteemed career of Roosters legend Boyd Cordner, with whom he had the chance to play during his debut season.
“I joined the Roosters primarily because I looked up to Boyd Cordner,” reflected Curran.
“Everything he did on the field, whether in attack or defence, inspired me to play alongside him. His passion in every match was something I aspire to incorporate into my own play.”
“Whenever I step onto the field, I aim to give it my all.”
Curran is set to make his return with the Bulldogs on Saturday as they take on the Sharks.
Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
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