A Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt grand master is the secret ingredient behind the Bulldogs' stunning premiership charge in 2024. The man club insiders credit largely for the turnaround is Alex Prates, who has joined the club as wrestling coach. In less than 12 months, the Bulldogs have gone from the NRL's worst defensive team to the best, thanks largely to Prates' influence. Ironically, Prates is another defector from Penrith to join the Dogs, coming to the club along with coach Cameron Ciraldo. He won two comps at the Bulldogs and was also part of South Sydney's drought-breaking title triumph in 2014. Last season, the Bulldogs conceded a dreadful 735 points - nearly 100 more than the next team. In 2024, with three rounds to go, they lead the league in points against - and are on track to rattle cages in the finals as a result. The Dogs have held opponents pointless in the second half an amazing seven times this season, including against the Dolphins last weekend. Add to that a potent attack led by new skipper Stephen Crichton and the Dogs are heading into the final series as a real threat. Defence is the cornerstone of their bid, though, thanks to Prates' wrestling techniques and the coaching staff. "Alex has been great for us and Cameron and (assistant coach) Chad Randall handle the defence and have really made a difference this season," Bulldogs guru Phil Gould told Wide World of Sports.
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