“We need to look at the business holistically, and we should all be under review. We’re here to deliver success, and if you have a look and say this is squarely with Des that’s probably untrue and unfair.
“We’ve got to have a look at the way we’re putting our roster together … and the amount of time we spend in pathways and bringing the kids who live in our region a life and chance to play on the national stage.”
The Titans needed to move swiftly to secure their next coach, with a host of their biggest stars reportedly considering their futures in the midst of the side’s turmoil.
Skipper Tino Fa’asuamaleaui’s lucrative contract is littered with player options that effectively make him a free agent from November 1, which will enable him to negotiate with rivals for 2027.
Halfback Jayden Campbell has also reportedly put contract extension thoughts on hold, while marquee forward David Fifita is yet to commit beyond 2026.
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Mitchell said it was more than Hannay’s coaching record which drew them to him, but his bond with the key men within the Titans’ ranks they were determined to retain.
“He’s won three series for Queensland out of four, and his work with Billy, the feedback from that program and his connection with the player group through Tino, JC, Dave … he’s a man who connects,” Mitchell said, adding there was no disconnect between Hasler and the squad.
“I think he’s got a great rapport with those players who are a critical part of our roster. I think the real opportunity here with Josh Hannay driving it and the coaching resources we’ll put around him is watching the development of some really highly talented players we have on the field.
“We had a player group that was quite young when Des arrived, and they’ve had more coaching and learning than they would’ve got in five years.
“If Josh connects and gets that up and going … I think it’s the start of a brand-new era for that group.”
Hannay will headline a revitalised Titans’ back office, with the club’s inaugural general manager of football Scott Sattler returning as director of football.
With Josh Hannay secured, attention will turn for the Titans to securing Tino Fa’asuamaleaui’s services.Credit: NRL Photos
Current football head Anthony Laffranchi will shift into head of recruitment, and will be tasked with balancing a squad which has leaned heavily on its forwards.
“Rosters evolve, particularly when you’re not at the right end of the ladder. We have to have a look at that and see where our depth is right, and parts of the roster and who we’ve got playing in critical spaces,” Mitchell said.
“We will [recruit].”
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