Former NRL forward Dunamis Lui is set to write the next chapter of his Dolphins journey, returning in 2026 as the Dolphins’ NRL Academy Skills Coach.
Lui’s appointment is more than a new staff announcement, it’s the continuation of one of rugby league’s great full-circle stories.
Growing up with a deep passion for rugby league, Lui rose through the grassroots system, carving out an early reputation as a tough, hardworking forward. His talent soon caught the eye of the Brisbane Broncos, who signed him to their academy system before he made his NRL debut for the Club in 2010.
From there, Lui spent two seasons with the Sea Eagles, then moved to the Dragons before moving south to join the Raiders, where he played five strong years and cemented himself as a reliable and consistent NRL figure.
A turning point in the game, when COVID-19 hit, Lui made the difficult decision to step away from the NRL at the end of the 2021 season. But he wasn’t done with football; far from it.
He returned to Redcliffe and pulled on the jersey for the Redcliffe Dolphins in the Hostplus Cup. His experience saw him called upon for a mid-season stint with the New Zealand Warriors in 2022, before he returned to Cup level in 2023.
In 2025, Lui’s rugby league journey took an unexpected and defining turn.
Lui said that he never thought he would be a coach.
“Coaching wasn’t something I ever expected, but once I stepped into it, I realised how much I loved it.”
But opportunity came knocking and Lui stepped into the role of Head Coach of the BRL. His leadership quickly set the tone for a new era in the BRL system. He strengthened the connection between the grades at Redcliffe, and inspired a shared commitment to excellence.
Under Lui’s guidance, the Redcliffe Dolphins claimed both the Minor Premiership and the Premiership in a standout 2025 season.
His impact didn’t go unnoticed. At the season’s end, Lui was honoured with the Redcliffe Dolphins’ Clubperson of the Year award, a testament to his influence, character and unwavering dedication.
Now, as 2026 arrives, Lui steps into a new chapter with the Dolphins’ NRL program, taking on the role of NRL Academy Skills Coach.
“Building culture, connection and belief is what drives me, and I’m excited to bring that energy into the NRL Academy this season,”
“Working with this academy group has shown me just how special our pathway system is. These young players turn up every day hungry to learn, committed to the standards and driven to be better.
The dedication across the whole academy program is unreal, and I’m excited to play a role in helping them take the next step” Lui said.
His story from a grassroots junior, to NRL mainstay, to a premiership-winning coach represents everything the Dolphins value: resilience, heart, leadership and legacy.
Lui returns to the club not just as a skills coach, but as a mentor shaping the next generation of Dolphins talent. His journey has already made history and now, he’s ready to help others build theirs.
