2019 is officially underway with the Gold Coast Titans NRL squad returning to the training field for the first time ahead of season kick-off on March 17.
Whilst the group returned to the Parkwood facility on Saturday for some testing, today marked the start to the final block of pre-season training with trial matches the next goal to be reached.
Coach Garth Brennan ordered his troops in early for a Saturday morning session and the Head Coach was happy with what he saw.
"They have returned in good shape," Brennan said.
"They came back on Saturday to blow the cobwebs out with some testing but we wanted to start today nice and fresh.
"Testing was good, it shows the guys kept themselves in good shape which is pleasing."
The next block of training will continue in the same fashion as it did prior to Christmas but Brennan will definitely increase the football element ahead of the trial matches.
The Titans' will have their first hit-out against the North Queensland Cowboys at Sunshine Coast Stadium on Saturday, 23 February before a final and more official trial to be held against Brisbane Broncos on Saturday, 2 March at Cbus Super Stadium.
Competition for spots is high with many commentators seeing the 2019 squad to be one with a lot more depth than previous Titans outfits. It's certainly something that has the group putting their best foot forward at every opportunity.
"It's been pretty easy," Brennan said regarding keeping the players motivated.
"The guys are looking around the squad and seeing the competition for spots. I think they're determined to not give their opposition in-house an edge which is pleasing.
"If you want to be competitive for the year, you need competition for spots. I think it shows in the way they've been competing against each other for spots so far."
