The Gold Coast Titans enter 2026 determined to reset their identity after finishing 16th and enduring a turbulent year under Des Hasler.
A roster with elite talent vastly underperformed, discipline broke down, injuries mounted and cohesion disappeared. With Josh Hannay now in charge and a fresh direction underway, the Titans cannot afford another lost season.
The Gold Coast's path back to competitiveness starts with accountability from key leaders and emerging playmakers. These five players are central to any rise off the bottom.
3. Tino Fa'asuamaleaui
The Titans captain gives everything. His work rate, physicality and aggression are unquestioned. Yet the numbers tell a story. Across his time at the club the Titans win 31 percent of matches he plays, roughly the same as when he is absent. That reflects a system failing around him, but also highlights the need for Tino to evolve into a more decisive, game-steering forward leader.
Tino's late offloads, leg drive and second-phase footy remain elite. Adding more deception, effort support lines and momentum-building actions in shorter, more explosive stints could bring greater influence.
2025 snapshot
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19 appearances
146 run metres per game (2,774 total)
1,066 post-contact metres
607 tackles
30 offloads
Career Titans record: 26-58 (31 percent win rate)
Why his role matters
As captain and the club's highest-paid player, Tino sets the physical tone. His capacity to influence the standard of the squad, not just personal effort, is central to the rebuild.
Key improvement areas
- Efficiency and impact scaling, not just volume
- Support lines and decoy threats
- Game-awareness leadership during momentum swings
- Emotional control in tight contests
