The Titans’ forward pack has been further bolstered with Canada Ravens co-captain and 2024 Las Vegas Combine winner Megan Pakulis joining the club this season.
A powerhouse middle forward, the 28-year-old arrives from York Valkyrie, where she scored five tries in 11 appearances and played a key role in winning last year's Betfred Women’s Super League grand final.
A staple of Canada's International team - the most capped Raven with 11 appearances for her country including two World Cup campaigns in 2017 and 2021 - Pakulis also created history for her home nation scoring the side's first International try in their maiden showing.
No stranger to the Gold Coast having previously visited Titans HQ when in action at the Harvey Norman Women's National Championships last year, the new recruit is excited to make a permanent return to Parkwood.
"When I was here for combine, I was in such a different headspace... more of a place of curiosity and wanting to learn as much as I can. Now I'm completely immersed in it all," she said.
"It's surreal to see where I was a year ago to where I am now.
"After meeting the girls for the first time this week, it’s clear they hold each other to incredibly high standards both on and off the field, all while maintaining such a positive and supportive attitude."
The opportunity to join the Titans was inspired by a conversation with head coach Karyn Murphy that highlighted the club’s commitment to growing the game.
"Part of what drew me to the club is a conversation I had with Murph last year where she explained the history of developing the sport here," Pakulis said.
"It reminded me of my time playing in Canada and how everyone is wearing multiple hats just to make the game and club grow.
"Not only does she lead as a coach, but she leads through example as a previous player and it's really exciting to be given the opportunity to build under her."
Murphy is thrilled to welcome Pakulis to her top 24 squad, praising both her potential and proven ability on the world stage.
"I first watched Meg when she was playing lock for Canada at the World Cup back in 2022 and she ended up being named in the team of the tournament," she said.
"That’s a massive achievement - not just for Meg, who was still relatively new to rugby league, but for a country like Canada that hasn't had a long history in the sport.
"Despite being relatively new to the game, she brings an outstanding work ethic that really sets her apart.
"She’s capable of playing big minutes, her defence is rock-solid and that’s exactly the kind of presence we’re looking for in our forward pack."
