Gold Coast Titans coach Justin Holbrook is sacked and replaced by Des Hasler – with former Sea Eagles and Bulldogs boss signed for 2024 and beyond
- Justin Holbrook sacked as Titans coach
- Des Hasler to take over for 2024 and beyond
- Move will reunite Hasler with Kieran Foran
The Gold Coast Titans have sacked head coach Justin Holbrook effective immediately – with Des Hasler his shock replacement next season.
‘We are grateful to Justin for his contribution to the club over the past four seasons,’ Titans CEO Steve Mitchell said in a club statement on Thursday.
‘[But] we are here to bring success to the Gold Coast and in order to do so we feel that this is the change necessary to deliver on our promise which is to win premierships.’
An interim coach is yet to be named, with Hasler in charge for 2024 and beyond.
He brings significant experience to the Glitter Strip, having coached 458 NRL games, reaching five grand finals and winning two premierships in 2008 and 2011 at the Sea Eagles.
The Gold Coast Titans have sacked head coach Justin Holbrook – with Des Hasler (pictured) his replacement next season
Holbrook took over in 2020, but has paid the price for his team leaking too many points this year
Hasler himself was sacked by the Manly board last November following the pride jersey saga, with Anthony Siebold his replacement.
‘I’m looking forward to joining the Titans and to the 2024 season,’ Hasler said.
‘The club has a strong playing roster, the region is blessed with emerging talent and the organisation is firmly embedded in the community.
‘I’m confident we can deliver success to the region in the coming seasons.’
The Titans had four players – Tino Fa’asuamaleaui, David Fifita, Moeaki Fotuaika and AJ Brimson (18th man) – in Queensland’s Origin team for game two on Wednesday.
Hasler will be able to work closely with the likes of Kieran Foran, Tino Fa’asuamaleaui, (pictured left) David Fifita and AJ Brimson next year
Some footy fans may feel the decision to move Holbrook on is harsh given the Titans currently sit in ninth spot on the NRL ladder.
Dating back to 2020, Holbrook’s winning record was 37.8 per cent, with 31 victories and 51 losses from 82 games.
This weekend the Titans – who have bold plans to win two NRL premierships by 2030 – face the in-form Broncos at Suncorp Stadium.
Holbrook is the second NRL coach relieved of his duties this season, after the Dragons parted ways with Anthony Griffin last month.
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