Gold Coast captain Tino Fa’asuamaleaui has reaffirmed his commitment to the Titans, expressing his desire to emulate the Brisbane Broncos’ remarkable turnaround from bottom of the league to NRL champions. Fa’asuamaleaui, who previously had an exit clause in his contract through to 2027, announced on Wednesday that he will remain with the Titans until at least the end of 2030. His decision was influenced significantly by the recent appointment of new coach Josh Hannay.
In a challenging 2025 season, the Titans struggled under former coach Des Hasler, finishing last in the league. Fa’asuamaleaui reflected on that difficult period, acknowledging frustrations but emphasizing his loyalty to the club. “There was a lot of frustrations at the time and definitely the light in the tunnel did flicker at times,” he stated on Thursday. “But every time I really looked into it, I definitely didn’t want to leave this place. I came here for a reason.”
Fa’asuamaleaui believes that the recent changes introduced by Hannay and the positive culture he is fostering will be instrumental in the team’s future success. “The changes that he’s made and the culture that he is forming here with us boys, it’s been so good and I just can’t wait to build with him and hopefully bring success here,” he remarked.
While the Titans have not been title contenders during Fa’asuamaleaui’s tenure, the emotional impact of witnessing the Broncos lift the 2025 NRL trophy has fueled his ambition. “Every year we’re not lifting the trophy, it definitely burns,” he said. He cited the Broncos’ transformation from wooden spooners to champions as a source of motivation. “To see where they started a few years ago after a wooden spoon, to finally get there is really good to see that and it’s something that motivates me.”
Fa’asuamaleaui’s loyalty was evident as he chose not to pursue interest from the Perth Bears and other NRL clubs, despite being on the market. He explained, “I didn’t really venture into it. I was on the market obviously, but I didn’t look at anywhere else to be honest. I kind of just wanted to get away from football and relax in the off season.”
His commitment to the Titans is not merely a professional choice but reflects a personal connection. “I want to continue that journey of why I came up here to bring that success,” he stated. Fa’asuamaleaui acknowledged the hard work ahead, referencing the Titans’ historical struggles for sustained success, having secured only one semi-final victory in their 19-year history.
The contrast between the Titans and the Broncos is stark, with the latter boasting seven premierships. Nonetheless, Fa’asuamaleaui remains undeterred. “We’ve got to do a lot of hard work, but hopefully in a few years’ time, or whatever it is, we can look back at the Broncos’ situation similar, where they went from wooden spooners to the premiers,” he concluded.
As the Titans gear up for the upcoming season, Fa’asuamaleaui’s renewed commitment and vision for the future serve as a rallying call for the team and its supporters. With the right leadership and dedication, the Titans hope to turn their fortunes around and achieve the success that has long eluded them.
