A bold new era is dawning for the Gold Coast Titans, as coach Josh Hannay initiates a massive $2 million roster overhaul following a string of disappointing seasons. This strategic shift is designed to inject fresh energy and competitiveness into the team.
Hannay, who officially takes the reins next week as the players return for the 2026 pre-season, has wasted no time in making his mark. His decisions, however, have led to some significant departures.
Key players like Reagan Campbell-Gillard, Carter Gordon, Alofiana Khan-Pereira, and, most notably, David Fifita, are moving on. This 'purge,' as it's been described, is a direct response to the Titans' struggles, having finished in the bottom four for four consecutive seasons.
Hannay explained that the roster needed a reset. He acknowledged the talent at the top end of the roster but identified a critical need to strengthen the team's depth. His goal isn't just to raise the team's ceiling but to significantly elevate its floor, ensuring a more consistent performance across the board.
But here's where it gets controversial... The coaching staff has also undergone a transformation. Des Hasler's assistants, Jim Lenihan, Brett White, and Michael Monaghan, have been replaced by a new group featuring Brian McDermott, Steve Murphy, and Brad Davis. This move underscores Hannay's commitment to building a completely new team culture.
Hannay highlighted the competitive nature of the assistant coaching market, emphasizing the challenges of securing top talent during the off-season. He expressed his excitement about the new coaching team, particularly the addition of Brian McDermott, whose extensive experience and proven track record as a winner are highly valued. Murphy's return to the Titans, after previous stints from 2006–2013, and McDermott's arrival from the Newcastle Knights, further solidify the coaching structure.
The Titans have also welcomed new players, including Lachlan Ilias from the St George Illawarra Dragons and Luke Sommerton from the Penrith Panthers. These additions, combined with Fifita's departure, have freed up approximately $2 million in salary cap space, allowing for strategic investments in the team's future.
Hannay is confident that the roster is now in a better position to create a deeper squad with more competition for positions. His aim is clear: to propel the Titans back into finals contention in 2026 and build a stable, competitive team for the long term.
What do you think of Hannay's approach? Do you agree with the need for such a drastic overhaul, or do you believe some of the departing players were undervalued? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
