Dolphins lock in foundation forward Donoghoe
A foundation Dolphin has pledged his future to the club with Kurt Donoghoe extending out until the end of the 2028 season.
Donoghoe joined the Dolphins on a basic train-and-trial deal back in late 2022 but played himself into a spot in the club’s inaugural squad and game of NRL season 2023.
He has now inked a further extension to his contract that will keep him at the ‘Phins for at least another three seasons.
Since day one the 24-year-old has built a reputation as one of the Dolphins’ most dependable performers, valued for his toughness through the middle and his ability to cover multiple roles.
Whether starting or coming off the bench, Donoghoe has become a trusted option in the pack.
The 2025 season marked a career-best campaign, with Donoghoe recognised with awards as the club’s Best Forward and Most Consistent Player.
His development was also acknowledged on the international stage with selection for Fiji.
Now with 40 appearances in Dolphins’ colours, Donoghoe’s value has been built on effort and consistency, his defensive work rate and physicality making him a staple of the middle rotation.
“Kurt has become a fan favourite at the Dolphins and it is easy to understand why,” said Dolphins’ chief executive Terry Reader.
“His toughness and style of play typifies everything we had hoped the club to be when we entered the competition.
“Kurt has developed from a trial-and-train player into a highly valued member of our squad.
“He is in our top 17 every week and we are so happy he has agreed to extend his contract with us.”
Donoghoe will be part of a forward group boosted by the return of Tom Gilbert, Origin-experienced props Thomas Flegler and Daniel Saifiti, as well as Max Plath.
The Dolphins have also added English Test lock Morgan Knowles alongside new recruits Selwyn Cobbo and Brad Schneider for 2026.
Donoghoe will be in line for selection when the Dolphins play their first official trial of the 2026 season against the Titans at Redcliffe’s Kayo Stadium on Thursday February 12.
That NRL trial season opener has been earmarked as the return to the field of both Flegler and Gilbert from their long-term injuries.
