Gold Coast Titans captain Tino Fa’asuamealui has demanded greater accountability at the club following the recent sacking of coach Des Hasler. In a candid statement, Fa’asuamealui expressed concern that only two individuals have been held accountable during a challenging four-year period for the National Rugby League (NRL) team. His remarks come in the wake of Josh Hannay being named as Hasler’s successor.
Fa’asuamealui voiced his belief that the Titans’ struggles, which have left the team without a finals appearance since 2021, cannot rest solely on the shoulders of the coaching staff. He stated, “If the team or a lot of things aren’t performing or getting the results, someone has to be held accountable.” The captain emphasized that accountability should extend beyond coaches, as the team seeks to improve its performance.
Future Prospects and Leadership Changes
With Hannay now at the helm, Fa’asuamealui remains optimistic about the future. He noted that he has previously collaborated with Hannay in his role as an assistant coach for the Queensland Maroons. The captain’s current contract includes clauses that allow him to negotiate with other teams starting from November 1, 2024, for the 2027 season. Despite this, Fa’asuamealui has stated that he is committed to the Titans, asserting, “I’m signed here – I don’t have to make a decision until next year.”
While he acknowledged the difficult season that fellow star player David Fifita has endured, Fa’asuamealui maintained that he would not pressure him regarding his future choices. “I’m there as a mate to support him mentally,” he said, highlighting the importance of friendship and support in navigating personal challenges.
Fa’asuamealui also discussed the vision club owners presented to him, indicating a roadmap designed to restore the Titans to a competitive stance. “They have shown me that plan, which is good,” he said. “There’s definitely things in place to get us to that.”
Reviewing the Roster and Future Strategies
In light of the team’s recent performance, Steve Mitchell, the Titans’ chief executive, announced plans for a comprehensive review of the roster. There is a growing consensus that the club has become overly focused on its forward pack, with numerous representative players, including Fa’asuamealui, contributing to the team’s struggles.
“We’ve got a great squad, but obviously with the results we’ve been getting, we can’t expect a different result with the same squad,” said Moeaki Fotuaika, another prominent Titans player. He anticipates changes in the roster, acknowledging that “you can’t expect a different result doing the same things.”
As the Titans navigate this transitional period, the emphasis on accountability and strategic planning may play a crucial role in shaping the club’s future. With a clear call for introspection from their captain, the Titans are poised for potential changes aimed at revitalizing their competitive edge in the NRL.
