For Phil Sami, the bus ride to Ipswich isn’t just another stop on the Titans’ pre-season schedule, it’s a drive back down memory lane.
Back past the fields where he first laced up his boots.
Back to the streets where family still live.
Back to the community that shaped the player and person he is today.
So when the Titans rolled into town to connect with the Ipswich Jets and local fans yesterday, Sami wasn’t just another squad member signing autographs.
He was home.
“Yeah, it means a lot to me,” Sami said.
“I grew up here my whole life basically.
"I moved from Ipswich when I was about 18 or 19, so I spent all my junior years here.
“I’ve got a lot of family here too, so it’s always close to the heart.”
There’s a comfort that comes with familiarity, but there’s also a sense of responsibility.
Giving back matters more when it’s personal.
“It’s obviously good to come back and see familiar faces and obviously give back to the community,” he said.
“Seeing everyone come out here to support us and the Jets is good.”
Nearly a decade into his Titans journey, Sami has quietly become one of the club’s longest-serving players.
The young man who arrived chasing an opportunity is now one of the veterans and despite coming off a career-best season statistically, he’s far from satisfied.
“Just not being happy with where I’m at,” Sami said of his approach to pre-season.
“I’ve obviously got a lot of improvements to make still.
“Those stats are nice to have, but there is areas in my game I want to improve and just keep pushing and keeping up with the young blokes.”
It’s why his position doesn’t faze him either.
“I’m prepared to play both (centre or wing),” he said.
“Wherever the coach thinks I’m best fit. I just want to put my best foot forward.”
As the Titans double down on connecting with local clubs and schools across southeast Queensland, Sami says he hopes the next generation of kids from Ipswich sees the same path.
“Being close to home, being around family is what is important for me,” he said.
“The Titans have done a lot for me and the community.
“We just want to pay that back.”
