There is no place like home.
When Titans players Moeaki Fotuaika and AJ Brimson run onto Cbus Super Stadium tonight in front of their home crowd, it is with the pride of a club that has seen them develop from attending local Gold Coast schools all the way through to first grade and onto rep football.
Keebra Park High School products, Brimson and Fotuaika, have progressed their way through the Titans junior ranks and systems and become leaders of a young Titans side on the rise.
Brimson has committed to the club until 2026 and Fotuaika 2022 and will form the nucleus of a Titans side going forward that has an ever-increasing 'local' flavour.
Titans General Manager Football, Anthony Laffranchi said that both players were testament to the work the club has done on recruiting and keeping local juniors.
"Moe and AJ both completed their schooling on the Coast and have been a part of our system for a number of years," Laffranchi said.
"They are two of our most consistent performers every week at club football and it is great that they are being rewarded with a State of Origin jersey... even if it is maroon."
Laffranchi played four games for New South Wales across 2008 and 2009, but will have torn allegiances as all three Titans players line up for Queensland.
"I am really proud of how far they have come in such a short time and it is great to see Gold Coast talent on the biggest stage," Laffranchi said.
"We have a number of local juniors in our squad who are committed long term and it is focus for us going forward as well to make sure we represent our region.
"Players like AJ and Moe are doing just that and show what is possible for the next generation of Titans players and fans as well.
Brimson and Fotuaika are joined by clubmate Tino Fa'asuamaleaui in playing Origin for Queensland, while David Fifita was selected but misses the game due to suspension.
Fifita will play for the Titans in the big double header at Cbus Super Stadium this Friday night though after serving his suspension.
The Queensland representatives are the equal most in the club's history and playing at the home of the Titans tonight makes it just that bit extra special.
