Jacob Cooke’s story is one of resilience, passion and an unbreakable connection to the Gold Coast Titans.
A proud member of the club’s inclusive rugby league (Leagueability) program, Cooke has faced more challenges than most in his journey, but his love for the game and determination to keep showing up has never wavered.
Living with Double Cortex Syndrome, a condition that causes six distinct types of daily seizures, Cooke has experienced episodes even while on the sidelines representing the Titans at Cbus Super Stadium.
Yet, in a true show of his spirit, he often returns to the field as soon as he’s able, embodying a level of grit and courage that inspires everyone around him
However his toughest test came in late 2023.
A severe and prolonged seizure led to a 112-day hospital stay, including more than 20 days in an induced coma.
It was a battle that pushed Cooke to his limits, but one he refused to lose.
Through months of intensive physiotherapy and occupational therapy, he worked tirelessly to rebuild his strength, mobility and independence. Step by step.
In 2024, that determination paid off.
Cooke was discharged from hospital, marking a major milestone in his recovery journey.
And in a moment that perfectly captured his passion for the Titans, the first thing he did was get a tattoo of the club’s logo as a permanent reminder of the team that stood by him through it all.
During his time in hospital, Cooke’s room became a sea of Titans colours and merchandise, as a constant source of motivation.
He was also visited by some of his favourite players, including Jayden Campbell, Tino Fa'asuamaleaui and Moe Fotuaika, who dropped in to lift his spirits and show their support.
Now back where he belongs, Cooke continues to be a proud Leagueability player, training each week and embracing every moment of the season.
His return to the field was a special one.
In Round 4 of the 2026 NRL season, when the Titans faced the Dragons at Cbus Super Stadium, the Leagueability sides took centre stage as the curtain-raiser.
It marked Cooke’s first game back at the venue since his hospitalisation, and he was cheered on by a passionate group of more than 25 supporters who made sure he felt every bit of encouragement.
For Renee Cohen, the club’s General Manager of Community & Game Development, Cooke’s journey is a powerful example of what the Leagueability program represents.
“Jacob’s story is incredibly inspiring and speaks to the heart of what our inclusive programs are all about,” Cohen said.
“His resilience, his love for the game and his determination to keep turning up, no matter the obstacles, is something that lifts everyone in our club and community.”
Cohen also praised the role that rugby league and the Titans can play in supporting the community beyond the field.
“To see the way Jacob has fought his way back, and the role that rugby league and the Titans have played in that journey, is something we’re immensely proud of,” she said.
“Programs like Leagueability are about connection, belonging and giving everyone the chance to be part of the game, and Jacob embodies that in every sense.”
Now, as Cooke marks his 21st birthday, it stands as more than just a milestone.
It’s a celebration of perseverance, of progress, and of a young man who refused to give up.
And as he continues to pull on the Titans jersey each week, one thing is certain, Jacob Cooke’s story is far from finished.
