Josh Hannay’s first year as a full-time NRL coach was meant to mark a fresh dawn for the Gold Coast Titans — but instead, it’s threatening to unravel before it even begins. What should have been a season focused on culture, consistency, and on-field improvement has turned into yet another off-field distraction. The Titans’ pursuit of legendary coach Craig Bellamy has created a storm of speculation that’s overshadowed Hannay’s arrival and tested the credibility of the club’s leadership.
After being handed the reins following Des Hasler’s messy exit, Hannay was viewed as a steadying hand — a young coach with a reputation for tactical sharpness and player care. His work with Queensland under Billy Slater and his stints as interim coach at both the Cowboys and Sharks had earned him quiet respect within the game. But now, instead of talking about his vision for the Titans’ rebuild, the headlines are dominated by reports of secret approaches, silent executives, and an increasingly restless playing group unsure of what the club’s long-term direction actually is.
At the centre of the controversy is the Titans’ interest in Craig Bellamy, the most successful coach of the modern era. Rumours that the club made a high-profile bid to lure Bellamy north — potentially to mentor Hannay or even replace him down the track — have raised eyebrows across the NRL. For a rookie head coach trying to stamp his authority, that kind of speculation is poison. It undermines confidence, fractures trust, and makes it impossible to build momentum.
What’s made the situation worse is the Titans’ refusal to clarify their position. The club’s leadership, led by CEO Steve Mitchell and owner Darryl Kelly, has remained conspicuously silent, neither confirming nor denying the Bellamy chase. That “radio silence” has drawn sharp criticism from media figures and former players alike, who say the lack of transparency has left Hannay exposed and fans frustrated. On the Gold Coast — where the club has long struggled to win hearts and minds — it’s another example of poor communication and questionable decision-making from the top.
Hannay, to his credit, has handled the saga with professionalism. He’s kept his focus on the playing group, insisting the team’s energy is being channelled into preparations for the 2026 season. Yet behind closed doors, there’s no doubt the uncertainty has had an impact. Senior players are reportedly concerned about mixed messaging, and potential recruits are waiting to see what the club’s leadership looks like before committing to future deals.
For a franchise desperate to establish stability and respect, this kind of distraction couldn’t come at a worse time. The Titans have one of the most talented young rosters in the league — with stars like AJ Brimson, Jayden Campbell, and David Fifita — but talent alone doesn’t win premierships. Leadership does.
If the Titans want to shed their reputation as the NRL’s “drama club,” they need to rally behind Josh Hannay now, not undermine him. He deserves the chance to lead without the shadow of another coach hanging over his head. For all the noise around Bellamy, it’s Hannay’s voice that needs to be heard on the Gold Coast — loud and clear.
