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.
4. Moeaki Fotuaika
Mo Fotuaika has been one of the Titans most consistent forwards, capable of huge defensive workloads and tough carries. His peak was in 2023 when he averaged 152 metres per match. In 2025 he produced strong numbers but dipped to 119 metres per game. That trend often mirrors the Titans fortunes: when Mo bends the line and wins rucks, Gold Coast compete.
2025 snapshot
- 22 appearances
- 2,618 run metres (119 average)
- 677 tackles
- 33 tackle breaks
- 17 offloads
- 1,040 post-contact metres
Why his role matters
Fotuaika anchors the middle and gives the Titans the platform to play. When he dominates, it allows the spine to play on the front foot and the defensive line to stay connected.
Key improvement areas
- Lift yardage output closer to peak seasons
- More assertiveness early in sets
- Ball-playing variation before contact
- Dominant ruck speed control in defence
