Inspiration from NRL Dynasty: Giants Strive for Success

GWS chasing “Western Sydney domination” | 02:09

GWS star Stephen Coniglio says the Giants will use NRL counterparts the Penrith Panthers as inspiration as the team looks to bounce back from last year’s heartbreaking finals exit.

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The Giants were one of the surprise packets in 2024 before bowing out in straight sets – including blowing a 44-point semi final lead over eventual premiers Brisbane.

Remarkably, GWS have missed finals just three times in the past decade – but remain one of three AFL teams to never win a premiership.

In contrast, the Panthers claimed their stunning fourth straight NRL crown in 2024.

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“To lose in the manner we did was extremely disappointing,” Coniglio said of the loss to Brisbane.

“It’s never something you completely get over.

“You can take inspiration from anywhere – you look at Brisbane last year and the way they got there. You can look at other sides in the past.

“I don’t even watch rugby league but you look at Penrith – and they’re in Western Sydney – and the run they’ve gone on and the dynasty they’ve gone on and I think … why can’t we do that?

“That’s why we’re still here.

“That’s why guys like Callan Ward haven’t retired yet – they still have that hunger and that belief that we can still do something really special.

Penrith star Nathan Cleary has four premiership rings from five grand final appearances. Picture: Getty ImagesSource: Getty Images

“I feel like we have the staff and players to be able to do that.”

To add injury to the Brisbane loss, Coniglio didn’t finish the game and ended up in hospital with multiple facial fractures – he then had to wait for swelling to subside before he could have surgery.

While still in a race to prove himself fit for Round 1, the former captain remains optimistic.

“I had a couple of weeks off for that (facial injury) and got my shoulder done as well, so a lot of time in hospital and then icing my face and shoulder,” he revealed.

“I’m feeling much better since the turn of Christmas.

“I’m feeling good – we have a healthy list at the moment.

“I’m hoping so (to play Rd 1). For me, more likely yes than no.”

The Giants have been bolstered by the arrival of former Bomber Jake Stringer to add to an attack line already boasting the likes of reigning Coleman Medallist Jesse Hogan and skipper Toby Greene.

Coniglio says the addition of Stringer is a “dangerous prospect” for rivals as the club looks to go two games better in 2025.

“There’s a number of guys that are that little bit older, a little more experienced, another pre season under the belt,” he said.

The Giants will play a practice match against rivals Sydney on February 21 before their official pre-season begins against Carlton on February 28.