SYDNEY, 01 March 2026 – As the NRL season prepares for its high-profile launch in Las Vegas, all eyes are on Daniel Atkinson. The 25-year-old playmaker is set to spearhead a new era for the St George Illawarra Dragons, stepping into the prestigious No. 7 jersey with the task of returning the club to finals football for the first time since 2018.
Leading the Dragons’ Revival
Atkinson’s journey to the Dragons’ starting halfback role has been a patient one. After signing with the club in December 2024, he spent the 2025 season with the Cronulla Sharks before officially joining Shane Flanagan’s squad for the 2026 campaign. Despite the pressure associated with the halfback role at such a storied club, Atkinson has expressed confidence in his ability to lead the side.
Speaking ahead of the season opener, Atkinson noted that while he hasn’t worn the No. 7 jersey since his time with the Sunshine Coast Falcons as a 21-year-old, he feels prepared for the tactical demands of the NRL. He will partner with Kyle Flanagan in a new-look halves pairing designed to play a more direct style of attacking football under the guidance of assistant coach Michael Ennis.
Las Vegas Season Opener
The Dragons are scheduled to face the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs in Las Vegas this week. This marks Atkinson’s second consecutive trip to the United States for the NRL season launch, having featured off the bench for the Sharks in their 2025 clash against Penrith. However, 2026 represents a significant step up as he takes full control of the team’s direction from the opening whistle.
Professional Profile and Career History
While Daniel Atkinson is currently making headlines in rugby league, several prominent individuals share the name across various professional sectors, including academia, finance, and medicine.
| Field/Industry | Notable Achievements / Roles | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Rugby League (NRL) | Starting Halfback for St George Illawarra Dragons (2026) | Wollongong/Sydney, AU |
| Arts & Education | Manager of Learning, Adult Interpretive Programmes at MCA Chicago | Chicago, USA |
| Finance | Senior Technical Consultant at EQ Investors; IFP Paraplanner of the Year | United Kingdom |
| Medicine | MD, Pain Management Specialist at St. Francis Downtown | Greenville, SC, USA |
| Academia/Author | Author of “Europe Didn’t Work: Why We Left and How to Get the Best from Brexit” | United Kingdom |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which NRL club does Daniel Atkinson play for?
As of the 2026 season, Daniel Atkinson plays for the St George Illawarra Dragons. He previously played for the Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks.
What position does Atkinson play?
Atkinson is a versatile playmaker primarily utilised as a halfback (No. 7), though he has experience playing in various positions across the backline and off the bench.
Is Daniel Atkinson starting in the 2026 Las Vegas round?
Yes, Atkinson has been named as the starting halfback for the Dragons’ season-opening match against the Bulldogs in Las Vegas.
Has Daniel Atkinson written any books?
A different Daniel Atkinson, a UK-based journalist and researcher, is the co-author of several works, including “Europe Didn’t Work,” which focuses on the economic impacts of Brexit.