Gold Coast Titans coach Josh Hannay has been leading the club for the past seven months. So, how's everything going?
While the team currently sits in second-last position on the ladder, there are numerous positives that suggest the Titans could become a Top 8 contender in the future.
In February, retaining inspirational captain Tino Fa'asuamaleaui for the long term significantly bolstered the club's profile. There were whispers about him leaving the Gold Coast, but Fa'asuamaleaui chose to remain loyal to Hannay and the Titans.
His presence alone enhances the Titans' appeal for both recruitment and retention, as players may be more inclined to join a team alongside one of the NRL's premier forwards and leaders. It's commendable that the club secured him; losing Tino would have posed major challenges for their competitiveness.
After mixing up their spine for what feels like ages, Hannay has finally found a stable configuration for the key positions on the team. Previously, AJ Brimson was shuffled between fullback, centre, and five-eighth to determine his best fit.
However, with the rise of local junior halfback Zane Harrison and hooker Oliver Pascoe, it appears the club has a clear vision for its future. Jayden Campbell naturally fits as a six, while Keano Kini takes the fullback role.
This stability should allow the starting line-up to form a solid connection over time, potentially unlocking the exciting capabilities of a player like Kini, who has already shown flashes of brilliance this season.
Kini is a true game-changer, exemplified by his remarkable performance against the premiers in Round 14. He executed a chip and chase that clinched the victory over the Broncos. His future looks bright, already earning five test caps for New Zealand since debuting in 2023, and the club has wisely extended his contract through the decade to deter competition.
The future of Brimson, however, remains uncertain. Although he is contracted until 2030, speculation suggests teams like the Bulldogs are hunting for a fullback. This scenario might create opportunities for both sides to reassess, allowing Brimson to secure his desired position while providing the Titans with salary cap flexibility, should they choose to explore that path.