Corey is the son of Garry Hughes, nephew of both Mark and Graeme Hughes and the brother of Glen and Steven Hughes - all former players at the club.

After joining the club in 1997 as a halfback, Corey became a regular member of the Under 19 team and played in the Preliminary Final against Penrith as captain.

In 1998, he began the season in reserve grade and received the opportunity to play in the NRL against South Sydney when Scott Wilson was relegated. He became a regular member of the team and played in the Grand Final against Brisbane.

In 1999, Corey started the season in the NRL as five-eight but was injured mid-season. However, he returned in time to play in the Semi Final against Melbourne.

In 2000, Corey started the season as five-eight but was once again injured mid-season.

In 2001, he started the season late and played hooker for several weeks in the NRL before being relegated for Darrell Trindall where he then played halfback in the Premier League.

Corey returned to the NRL for the Semi Final loss against Cronulla, starting on the bench when Braith Anasta was injured.

In 2002, Corey became the regular hooker and played in every match.

In 2003, he started the season as hooker but later became an interchange player and played in the Preliminary Final against the Roosters from the bench.

In 2004, Corey started the season as hooker and was injured mid-season before he returned to play from the interchange bench and secured a spot in the 16-13 Grand Final win over the Roosters in the number 15 jersey where he produced a vital 40-20 kick.

In 2004, Corey was nominated for the Berries to Bulldogs 70 Year Team of Champions.

In 2005, Corey was apart of the 32-39 World Club Challenge loss against the Leeds Rhinos before playing hooker and halfback in a season where injuries forced countless changes.

Season 2006 saw Corey used as the the regular hooker and he played in the Preliminary Final loss against Brisbane.

In 2007, Corey made his debut as captain of the club, becoming the 83rd player to do so. He went on to captain two games, missing just one match all season, playing 25 games and a total of 1,344 minutes.

Hughes made a total of 657 tackles, second only to captain Andrew Ryan who made 733 for the season.

2008 was a successful season for Corey, playing for City Origin whilst staring for the Bulldogs in his 22 appearances.

Season 2009 will see Hughes at Cronulla.