It's been a whirlwind week for Torah Laudaka.
Fresh off celebrating her 17th birthday, the Future Titans rising star is gearing up for her second hit out with the QLD City Under 17s, just days after inking a 2026 development contract with the Gold Coast Titans.
With several clubs vying for the next-generation young gun, Luadaka said signing with the Titans as a development player was an easy decision.
"I've been with the club since I was 15 and I just love the culture here, it really feels like home," she told titans.com.au.
"They've made me feel a part of the family, so I'm extremely grateful for this opportunity and I can't wait for what's to come in 2026."
Having been part of the club's pathways program since 2022, Luadaka has thrived in the Future Titans squad and now channels that same drive into the Tweed Seagulls Under 17s.
"The Future Titans program really set the tone and showed us girls where the standards sit for the NRLW, so to be able to bring that energy into the Tweed team has really uplifted our game," she said.
Titans coach Karyn Murphy is excited to lock in the rising star a year in advance, praising Luadaka for her ongoing drive to reach the top level and the club's ongoing commitment to nurture local talent.
"Torah has a lot of talent for a young girl her age and works really hard on everything she does," she said.
"She's continually seeking feedback from our pathway coaches and has always had that goal to make the NRLW, so to be able to sign Torah on her 17th birthday, the age you can sign a contract, shows the confidence I have in her on a development contract for 2026.
"With only four development contracts available, it's extremely competitive for those positions and I think signing Torah a year ahead highlights how much confidence we have in her.
Now in its fourth year, Murphy and her team are working tirelessly behind the scenes to evolve the Future Titans pathway alongside the growth of women's rugby league; focused on providing young players with the education and support needed to excel both on and off the field.
"It's important as a young player to see a definite pathway and understand with hard work, you can stay here and play for the Gold Coast Titans.
"We're currently in the reviewing stages of last season's program and will make necessary changes as we evolve to ensure we're providing the best opportunities for our young girls here.
