One of the best young talents in the NRL has explained why he opted to re-sign with the Gold Coast Titans despite interest from three of the biggest clubs in the game. Cooper Bai looked every bit a star in the making in the Titans’ pre-season win over the Dolphins on Thursday night, showing why he’s so highly-regarded.
The 19-year-old giant had 10 runs for 88 metres in his only stint on the field, breaking two tackles and making 21 of his own. He was phenomenal in his one and only NRL game last year against the Tigers, sparking a battle for his long-term services.
The Melbourne Storm and Penrith Panthers were both interested in signing Cooper Bai. Image: AAP
The son of Storm great Marcus Bai, Cooper was chased hard by Melbourne and also had interest from the Penrith Panthers and Sydney Roosters. But the teenager opted to re-sign with the Titans earlier this month in a huge recruitment coup for the league minnows.
Speaking for the first time about his decision to re-sign, Bai said it was down to the influence of new coach Josh Hannay. “It was a big weight off my shoulders and it was good to come into games having everything done,” he told AAP. “I was really happy here and enjoying being under Josh, the coaching staff and playing squad.
“I feel like (Hannay) is really good with all the young boys. The big part he has is connection. I just feel like that connection piece is really good for all of us. When the tension levels are high he is able to calm all the boys down and that is the most important part of his character.”
Cooper Bai was impressive in the Titans’ pre-season win over the Dolphins.
(AAPIMAGE)Tricky call for Cooper Bai with father a Storm legend
Bai will remain on the Gold Coast until at least the end of 2027, while also having an option in his favour for 2028. But he admitted it was difficult telling his family after his father Marcus played 144 games for Melbourne and helped the Storm win the 1999 premiership.
“It was tough to make all the phone calls to my family and let them know, but they were really excited for me to continue my journey here,” he said. “(Tough decisions) always come with it when my old man has been to a different club. As long as I was happy, he was happy.
“I have a pretty tight squad at home with my family and my management. It is good having that secure group who are trying to find my best interests. That has helped me get through it.”