The Gold Coast Titans have wasted no time appointing a new head coach with Josh Hannay to take over the reins in 2026.
It follows confirmation that Des Hasler will depart at the end of this season despite having a year to run on his contract.
Hasler had a clause in his contract that allowed the club to part ways if the side failed to make the top 8.
EARLIER: Des Hasler sacked as Gold Coast Titans coach
Hannay, considered one of the brightest up-and-coming coaches in the NRL, has signed a three-year deal with the Titans.
After finishing his NRL career after stints with the Cowboys and Sharks, Hannay began his coaching career with the Souths Logan Magpies in the Queensland Cup in 2013.
He later went on to become an assistant at the Cowboys under Paul Green, later becoming caretaker coach when Green resigned.
Hannay joined the Sharks as an assistant in 2020 and was also the interim coach for most of 2021 following the sacking of John Morris.
He has also been an assistant with the Queensland State of Origin team.
Hannay will link up with the Titans at the conclusion of the Sharks’ finals campaign
“Josh is one of the best young minds in the game,” Titans CEO Steve Mitchell said.
“After 10 years in the NRL as a player, Josh has built a body of work as an assistant coach that has him ready to be successful with a team of his own.
“He is highly regarded with players and staff who have worked with him across his coaching roles to date, speaking to his ability to communicate and deliver a winning game plan.”
The Titans have also announced the appointment of Scott Sattler as the club’s first Director of Football.
Sattler had previously held the role of Football Manager ahead of the Titans inaugural season in 2007.
“As a player, Scott was known for his incredible work rate, effort and never-say-die attitude,” Mitchell said.
“These are the traits we want to see from our players and who better to instil this than someone who lived and breathed these during his own career.
“Scott has a strong connection with the Titans, having been involved in the development of the inaugural roster back in 2007 and has showed that he knows how to put together a winning squad.
“He is a Gold Coaster through and through, he grew up here, played his junior footy here, made his first-grade debut here and continues to call our region home – Scott is passionate about the Coast and wants success for this club.
The club has also announced the return of foundation Titans player Anthony Lafranchi as Head of Recruitment.
“Anthony is held in high regard. He is a person of great integrity and is a great clubman.
“His overall experience across the football department is extensive, however his desire is to have his fingerprints on shaping our roster, bringing balance to our list, and making the changes needed for success.
“We know we have some refinements to make to our roster, and we are confident that Anthony has the skills and the character and support to be successful in the role.”
