When Jetaya Faifua walked into her first Titans training session and saw the familiar face of Tahnee Norris, she knew she was home.
The rugby star, turned inaugural Titan has switched over from rugby and is ready to make her mark in the 13 a side game.
Faifua said knowing some of the squad already has helped her settle in and get ready for the debut season of Titans' NRLW.
"I’ve known Tahnee (Norris) for a little while now. When I first played 7s (rugby) at Bond she was there, so I’ve known her for a bit. Coming to a new club with a familiar face it kind of made it a bit easier for me to fit in," Faifua said.
"Seeing her here as well it’s pretty amazing to have a coach I’m familiar with."
It's not just the Titans' Assistant Coach that Faifua knows though, with a number of the local Gold Coast girls familiar to Burleigh Bears star.
"To come into a team where I know a few girls at least has been more welcoming and not as nerve racking because you know some people, you feel more comfortable in the team," Faifua said.
After a debut season with the Burleigh Bears where they won the BHP Premiership, Faifua's confidence is building in rugby league.
"Last year was my first year of playing footy, but I’ve been through 7’s and 15s (rugby) so to change to a different code has been pretty exciting and I’ve loved it really," Faifua said.
So, what can Faifua bring to the rugby league field from rugby?
"7s is a massive field to play on so there’s a lot space and you play pretty much eyes up footy the whole game, so bringing my eyes up footy and seeing what’s in front and playing what’s there really," Faifua enthused.
"To be honest it (playing rugby league) was all pretty thrilling at the time and I honestly wouldn’t expect to be here at all.
"I just wanted to come into the sport and get used to the game and see where it took me, but to be here right now has been a privilege in itself really.
"It's the first time playing on the wing for any sport really. I feel like I’m usually more around the ball so it’s a bit different trying to get used to it defensively and attack wise.
"It’s been quite challenging but (I) got there in the end."
Like many in the Titans squad Faifua is looking forward to the first NRLW local derby against the neighbouring Brisbane Broncos, but knows as the new kids on the block the Titans will have a big task in front of them - especially taking on some of her Burleigh teammates.
"Z (Zahara Temara) in the halves is going to be a challenge in itself and Tamika (Tamika Upton) out back ... they’re amazing players so we’re just going to have to see how it goes."
Catch the Titans inaugural NRLW side in action on February 19 at Cbus Super Stadium for their first ever home game. NRLW Foundation Memberships are on sale now.
