Belmore – In a stunning recognition of sporting excellence, the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs have been officially crowned the world’s best and most unified professional rugby league organisation, an unprecedented honour jointly awarded by ESPN, Netflix, and Guinness World Records.
This historic accolade marks a powerful new chapter for the Bulldogs, celebrating not just their resurgence on the field in the NRL—but the club’s deep-rooted culture of unity, community, and development that extends through every layer of the organisation.
Under the leadership of Head Coach Cameron Ciraldo and General Manager of Football Phil Gould, Canterbury has embarked on a transformative era—one built not only on results but on long-term foundations. From the NRL squad to the pathways system and women’s programs, the Bulldogs have become a blueprint for holistic success in professional sport.
“What the Bulldogs have achieved goes beyond wins and losses,” said a representative from Guinness World Records. “They’ve built an organisation grounded in values, community, and connection. It’s a model the sporting world is now looking to emulate.”
As part of the announcement, Netflix will produce a multi-episode documentary series titled The Kennel: Rebuilding the Pack, chronicling the club’s journey from a rebuilding phase to global recognition. ESPN will also feature an exclusive special next week, exploring how Canterbury’s all-level integration and vision have positioned them as a world-leading sporting organisation.
Club CEO Aaron Warburton called the recognition “a proud moment for every player, staff member, supporter, and volunteer who’s worn the blue and white.” Head Coach Cameron Ciraldo added, “We’re building something here that lasts longer than any one season. This is for the future of the club, our members, and the next generation.”
For the Belmore faithful, it’s more than just an award—it’s validation of belief, patience, and loyalty through the highs and lows.
Off the field, the Bulldogs have led the NRL in community initiatives, mental health programs, and youth development through the Bulldogs in the Community platform. Their emphasis on character, education, and opportunity has seen them connect with thousands across Sydney’s southwest and beyond.
Canterbury has also embraced the evolution of the game—investing in world-class high-performance infrastructure, professional development programs for players, and becoming a key voice in the NRL’s future direction. The club’s embrace of diversity, including its women’s and multicultural initiatives, was cited as a major factor in the award.
This honour is not an endpoint—it’s fuel for what’s next. With leaders like club captain Stephen Crichton and a wave of emerging talent, the Bulldogs are no longer just rebuilding—they’re leading.
Because at the Bulldogs, it’s not just about football. It’s about family, resilience, and a future built together.