The Titans will celebrate a historic milestone this Saturday with Moeaki Fotuaika to become the club’s most capped player in his 174th NRL appearance.
Drawing level with club legend Mark Minichiello in Magic Round at the weekend, the 26-year-old will surpass the record set in 2014 when he takes to the field against the Manly Sea Eagles at 4 Pines Park.
Debuting as an 18-year-old in 2018 after beginning in the Under 20s program, Fotuaika has become one of the NRL’s premier middle forwards and one of the Titans’ most respected leaders, admired for his consistency, professionalism and loyalty to the club.
Part of Keebra Park’s National Schoolboy Cup grand final team in 2016, the Queensland Maroon and Tongan International has grown into a cornerstone of the Gold Coast forward pack and a fan favourite across the region.
Titans CEO Steve Mitchell praised Fotuaika’s achievement as a proud moment in club history.
"To see Moe surpass a 12-year record and become our most capped player is incredibly special for everyone connected to our club," he said.
"Much like Mark Minichiello who previously held the accolade, he represents everything we want the Gold Coast Titans to stand for - hard work, selflessness and having a deep connection to our club and community.
"Moe has been part of our club since he was a teenager and has developed into one of the elite front-rowers in the game. To achieve this milestone at just 26 years of age speaks volumes about his durability, professionalism and commitment.
"He is deeply respected by his teammates, staff and our members and fans, and we couldn’t be prouder to see him create history in Titans colours this Saturday."
Titans coach Josh Hannay said Fotuaika’s influence at the club extended far beyond his performances on the field.
"Moe’s loyalty is everything. You don’t see many one-club players in this day and age, and he’s been a stalwart for the Titans since he debuted as a teenager," he said.
"To become the most capped player at a NRL club at only age 26 is a remarkable achievement, especially for a front-rower given the physical demands of the position.
"He may be softly spoken, but he’s a true leader at this club through his actions and is someone his teammates admire and every coach loves working with because of the standards he sets every single day.
"Moe’s earned enormous respect across the competition and within our organisation, and everyone at the Titans is thrilled to see him recognised with this milestone."
