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Gold Coast Titans Prepare for New Season with Roster Changes, Coaching Shift, and Initial Lineup

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Titans Overhaul Roster, Name Hannay Coach Ahead of Season Opener

The Gold Coast Titans have implemented significant roster changes and appointed Josh Hannay as their new coach ahead of the upcoming season. These adjustments include key player departures and new signings aimed at enhancing team depth and balance. The club has also announced its initial lineup for the season opener against the Sharks, featuring several new faces and a notable absence due to injury.

The Titans' strategic overhaul focuses on improving overall team balance and depth across various positions through a series of player movements and a new coaching direction.

New Era Under Josh Hannay: Roster Revamp

Josh Hannay officially steps into his role as the new coach for the Gold Coast Titans. Under his leadership, the club has actively pursued a comprehensive roster adjustment, involving both the departure of several players and the acquisition of new talent. These changes are a core part of their preparation for the upcoming season.

Key Player Movements: Departures and New Acquisitions

The Titans' squad has seen considerable shifts in personnel, with both significant departures and strategic new arrivals.

Departures:

The club has bid farewell to several key players, including:

  • David Fifita
  • Reagan Campbell-Gillard
  • Alofiana Khan-Pereira
  • Brian Kelly
New Arrivals:

A wave of new recruits has been brought in to strengthen the squad:

  • Siale Faeamani: A 21-year-old from Penrith, expected to debut on the wing after strong trial performances.
  • Max Feagai: Set to make his club debut, he will be competing for a center spot.
  • Lachlan Ilias: A new halfback joining the team.
  • Luke Sommerton and Ollie Pascoe: The 2025 Hostplus Cup Player of the Year, added to bolster hooking depth.
  • Cooper Bai: A young player with NRL and PNG Kumuls experience, expected to contribute to the forward pack.

Titans Announce Season Opener Lineup Against Sharks

For their season opener against the Sharks in Sydney, Coach Josh Hannay has unveiled an initial 22-man squad. Notably, this squad features seven new players.

Key selections for the initial lineup include:

  • Arama Hau has been selected to start in the back-row, earning his spot ahead of Josh Patston.
  • Siale Faeamani is slated to make his NRL debut on the wing, marking a significant milestone.
  • Max Feagai will make his club debut in the centers.
  • Lachlan Ilias will combine with AJ Brimson in the halves, forming a new playmaking partnership.

Forward Pack Strength and Injury Updates

The team's formidable forward pack boasts a strong contingent of international and State of Origin representatives. This includes captain Tino Fa'asuamaleaui and Moeaki Fotuaika, who are expected to lead from the front.

However, the team will start the season with two notable absences due to injury:

  • Ireland international Jaimin Jolliffe is sidelined with an ACL injury.
  • Jayden Campbell is unavailable for the season opener due to a minor hamstring strain.