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Steve Allan, the voice behind some of Australia’s biggest sporting moments is the creator and host of The Perfect 10 podcast — a series of powerful, personal interviews with game-changers, gold medallists, and rising stars who’ve made their mark and have a story worth sharing.
He might just be one of the most underrated players in Rugby League history. With electrifying pace and one of the best sidesteps the game has ever seen, Steve Ella was a phenomenon in the legendary Parramatta Eels backline of the 1980s — winning four Premierships during the club’s golden era.
A proud Yuin man, Steve represented New South Wales and was part of the Blues’ first-ever State of Origin series win. He also earned his place among the game’s greats, as a member of the 1982 Kangaroos — the iconic “Invincibles” who went undefeated on their historic tour of Great Britain and France. While the record books list four Test caps, Steve made 13 appearances on that tour alone, crossing for an astonishing 21 tries.
Off the field, Steve’s impact has been just as powerful. He holds a Master of Philosophy (Medicine) and a Graduate Diploma in Indigenous Health Promotion, and today serves as the Central Coast District Director of Aboriginal Health. Through leadership, research, and innovation, he continues to drive meaningful change in the delivery of culturally safe and high-quality healthcare for Aboriginal communities.
A brilliant athlete. A true game-changer. And an even greater man.
The post Ep: 55 “The Zip Zip Man – Steve Ella’s Unstoppable Legacy” appeared first on The Perfect 10 Podcast.
From teenage surf sensation to dual Olympian and elite sailor, Ky Hurst’s story is a masterclass in athletic evolution. He burst onto the Ironman scene, becoming one of the sport’s all-time greats — a 4-time Australian Open Ironman Champion and a 10-time Surf Race national champion, a record unlikely to be matched.
Ky didn’t stop at dominating the surf. He switched to Open Water Swimming, representing Australia in Beijing and London, and claiming numerous World Championship medals in the brutal 10K event. Then, he reinvented himself again — trading speedos for sails as a crew member in the America’s Cup and Sail GP.
The Surf Lifesaving and Open Water Hall of Fame Member shares the highs, the heartbreaks, and the hunger that drove him across three world-class sporting careers. He’s a proud husband, father of three, and arguably one of the most versatile and accomplished athletes Australia has ever produced.
The post Ep: 54 Ky Hurst – One of Australia’s Greatest Ever Athletes appeared first on The Perfect 10 Podcast.
Is John Strange the most underrated coach in Australian sport? With two NRLW premierships and a Dally M Coach of the Year award to his name, the Sydney Roosters NRLW coach has proven himself as a game-changer in women’s rugby league.
In this episode, we dive deep into John’s journey, from this year’s thrilling grand final win over the Sharks to his reflections on the incredible talent within the women’s competition.
He shares insights on some of his stars, the players he admires most, and what it’s like coaching his daughter Jasmin—part of this year’s premiership winning side.
For a man who values his privacy, a peek into John’s shed reveals so much: a signed photo of illusionist David Copperfield, pinball and karaoke machines, a punching bag, and old-school weights. It’s a tribute to his belief that nothing in life is achieved without hard work.
Oh, and did we mention his family’s talent doesn’t stop with him? John’s son Ethan is also making his mark with the Canberra Raiders in the NRL.
Don’t miss this fascinating chat with one of rugby league’s most accomplished and humble figures.
In this episode of The Perfect 10, we sit down with Scott Sattler, the man immortalised by one of the most iconic tackles in NRL history. That single moment in the 2003 Grand Final didn’t just secure the win; it created a legend. Scott takes us through the lead-up, the split-second decision-making, and the life-changing impact of that tackle, reflecting on how it cemented his legacy and transformed his journey on and off the field.
Scott opens up about his unique upbringing, raised in pubs on the Gold Coast, where his legendary dad John kept the peace, often by dishing out his own brand of justice. Reflecting on his father’s unmatched leadership on and off the field, Scott shares insights into the qualities that shaped him, as well as stories of his heroes from the iconic Souths team of the ’60s and ’70s, including the 14th Immortal Ron Coote.
Scott has forged a remarkable career off the field, blending his passion for sport with a keen eye for business. He’s the host of a national radio program on the SEN – Sports Entertainment Network, where his insights continue to shape the conversation. Beyond broadcasting, Scott’s private investigation business has thrived for decades, a testament to his tenacity and skill. Now, he’s embarking on a new venture, Project One3, dedicated to negotiating player contracts and helping the next generation build a foundation for success.
Don’t miss this episode—it’s an inspiring look at a legacy built on grit, resilience, and vision.
In Part 2, Phil shares his take on the greatest Olympic moments he’s witnessed, as well the best surf swimmers in Australia’s rich Lifesaving history.
He opens up about his decision to embrace sobriety over the last 18 months and the impact its had on his life.
The former World Ironman Champion delves deeper into his business, at Tallebudgera Creek on the Gold Coast, and pays homage to the legends in his sport, including Trevor Henry and Guy Leech, the original Coolangatta Gold winner and Phil’s ongoing mentor.
Phil reflects on his journey, from Ironman to Olympic mastermind, the icons who shaped him, and the legacy he’s now building for future generations.
We’re celebrating here at The Perfect 10 with our 50th episode. A huge thank you to all our listeners for being part of this journey.
Join us as we catch up with Phil Clayton, a titan of the Uncle Tobys Ironman Series, with 11 career wins and four unforgettable victories at Portsea in Victoria.
From tackling mountainous surf, appearing on Baywatch, to coaching at the highest levels of sport, Phil shares the key moments that defined his career.
We explore his seamless transition from world ironman champion to coaching phenomenon, where he played a pivotal role in guiding Great Britain’s Alex Yee to Olympic gold in the Men’s Triathlon.
Phil shares his insights from the Paris Games and discusses how his thriving business is helping shape the next generation of champions. This conversation is one you won’t want to miss!
Time Stamps:
(01:08) Phil Clayton winning at Portsea in huge surf in 2001 – commentary from Matt White, Guy Leech and Olympic gold medallist Clint Robinson OAM.
(05:25) The Paris Olympics.
(06:11) Alex Yee wins gold in the Triathlon for Great Britain.
(15:04) The Australian Olympic swimming team.
(15:50) Emma McKeon.
(18:34) The early days in Wollongong.
(20:40) The iconic Uncle Tobys Ironman Series.
(22:07) The King of Portsea.
(25:22) The legendary Trevor Hendy.
(27:48) An unforgettable victory on his home beach.
(31:53) Baywatch and racing at Huntington Beach California.
(34:10) Winning a World Ironman Title at Manly.
Get ready to dive deep into the journey of a true champion. Meet Dylan Littlehales, a 24-year-old para-kayaker who is about to become a three-time Paralympian at the Paris 2024 Games. Despite being born with a limb deficiency and enduring over 20 surgeries since birth, Dylan’s resilience and determination have propelled him to the pinnacle of his sport.
In this episode, Dylan shares the highs of winning the 2023 World Championship, his close friendship with fellow Paralympian Curtis McGrath, and the profound impact of his mother’s battle with cancer on his life, both on and off the water. As he prepares for the KL3-200 metre kayak sprint in Paris, Dylan reveals his ultimate goal: retiring with gold at the Brisbane 2032 home Games.
Join us for an inspiring conversation with a man who has his sights set on the podium and beyond. No matter what happens in Paris, Dylan Littlehales is focused on a legacy that will inspire future generations.
Time Stamps
(00:30) Welcome and Paris Olympics update.
(02:00) Brief overview of the Dylan Littlehales story.
(03:12) Many thanks to our sponsor, Robson Civil Projects.
(04:50) Nicole Littlehales on the challenges Dylan faced when he was born with a limb deficiency.
(15:30) Olympic medallist Lachie Tame describes seeing Dylan at Avoca Kayak Club.
(16:18) Dylan Littlehales joins Steve in the studio. The boys talk about Central Coast Olympians Riley Fitzsimmons and Ella Beere in the K4 events.
(19:23) Training centre in Italy prior to the Paris Paralympics.
(21:30) Where it all began in his kayaking career.
(23:20) Friends with the incredible Fox family.
(26:35) Dylan’s recollections of hospital visits and up to 20 operations.
(30:02) His first Paralympics in Rio 2016
(32:02) Forging a friendship with the legendary Curtis McGrath.
(35:29) 4th by a thousandth of a second in Tokyo.
(41:00) Winning a World Championship and coping with his Mum’s Stage Two Breast Cancer diagnosis.
(45:52) Aussie support crew in Paris.
(48:20) Bachelor of Psychological Science and doing Masters.
(49:07) The End Game in 2032.
(53:11) The Donnica Clarke Foundation – supporting athletes on the Central Coast since 2008.
(54:15) Dylan’s commentary rant.
(57:53) Wrap and many thanks to Robson Civil Projects.
He’s virtually achieved it all in both surf lifesaving and kayaking, but there’s just one thing missing for paddling powerhouse Riley Fitzsimmons – an Olympic medal.
Inspired by his hero Lachie Tame, Fitzsimmons burst on the surf scene with Avoca Beach, and qualified for his first Olympics in Rio in 2016, finishing fourth in the K4 1000-metres.
He then claimed the World Ski title in Adelaide, as well as the prestigious Australian Single Ski crown.
In 2021, Fitzsimmons represented Australia at the Tokyo Games, coming away with a sixth place in the K4 with Tame, Jordan Wood and Murray Stewart.
After a year away from kayaking to reset and refocus, Fitzsimmons has returned better than ever. He bagged another National surf ski title, and qualified for a third Games with a new crew including surf lifesavers Pierre van der Westhuyzen, Jackson Collins and Noah Havard. The team will be strong medal contenders, following a fourth place at the World Titles in Duisburg, Germany.
As he sets his sights on Olympic glory in Paris, we delve into his extraordinary journey including his relationship with ironwoman superstar Georgia Miller, and just like his great mate Lachie Tame, he’s promised to sing “The Horses” on National TV if he wins a medal in Paris.
“Meet Jack Cogger, whose rugby league career has been a rollercoaster of triumphs and setbacks. Starting with the Newcastle Knights before a stint at the Canterbury Bankstown Bulldogs, Jack faced a pivotal moment when he was abruptly told his services were no longer required. This setback led him to reassess his path, contemplating a shift away from professional rugby league, and focusing on his business degree.
However, fueled by ambition and a willingness to take risks, Jack ventured to the UK to join Huddersfield, where he made his mark in a thrilling Challenge Cup Final. Just when it seemed like his career might plateau, fate intervened in the form of a call from Ivan Cleary, a two-time premiership-winning coach, and Jack was on the move again, to the mighty Penrith Panthers.
His defining moment arrived on Grand Final night when, alongside half-back Nathan Cleary, Jack orchestrated the most remarkable comeback in grand final history, propelling the Panthers to victory from a 16-point deficit. Both Nathan and Ivan hailed Jack as instrumental in the team’s success.
Now, with his sights are set on leading the Newcastle Knights to their first title since 2001, Jack also aspires to contribute to player well-being and coaching. His story epitomises the power of self-belief and regardless of your circumstances to dream big.”
Ever wondered what it takes to bounce back from a broken leg and reclaim your place among the world’s top athletes? Meet aerial skier Abbey Willcox…
Abbey was even cast aside by the Australian team six years ago, but refused to accept defeat, instead training with the Swiss squad to further her development.
Now, four years after her first podium, Abbey has claimed her rightful place among the elite of the sport, with a top three finish at the World Cup event in Deer Valley.
Abbey talks about almost quitting, and concentrating on her career in sports marketing with the Brisbane Broncos. She also shares her desire to push the boundaries for women, and provides insight on the risks required to reach the top.
Join us for one of the best stories in Australian sport – The Perfect 10 with Abbey Willcox.
Timestamps
(00:11) Welcome to episode 46.
(00:55) Recap including Glenn ‘Micro’ Hall and Molly Picklum’s Perfect 10 at Pipeline.
(02:30) The sad passing of Men’s Marathon World record holder Kelvin Kiptum and his Coach.
(04:04) Sponsor – Greg Ferguson, Operations Manager Robson Civil Projects.
(06:04) Welcome Abbey Willcox and congratulations on Deer Valley Podium.
(06:26) Overcoming challenges to climb back to the top.
(07:54) Ignoring doubts and continuing the journey.
(08:35) Waiting for scores after a superb performance.
(10:46) I’ve had everything thrown at me. Mental toughness and perseverance.
(11:57) The back lay full – what does that look like.
(12:31) Push the sport for women.
(13:26) The Numbers – speed, height and courage required to compete.
(15:14) Are you a gymnast at heart or have you always loved skiing.
(17:32) Great women in the sport. The legends who paved the way.
(19:11) Working for the Brisbane Broncos. Premiers in 1992, 93, 97, 98, 2000 and 2006.
(21:55) She’s Incredible – Nicola Olyslagers nee McDermott soaring to new records in High Jump.
(22:26) Beautiful upbringing on a Central Coast property.
(23:45) What are you reading and bingeing on if you watch TV.
(25:14) World Cup rivals and Deer Valley – the Super Bowl of skiing.
(28:29) Welcome back Greg Ferguson from sponsor Robson Civil Projects. Staff members celebrating 40 years.
(29:40) Final wrap.