Originally Posted by
super cronk
The new Gold Coast franchise will use the Wests Tigers' stunning six-year rise to the NRL premiership as a blueprint when their own campaign kicks off in 2007.
Gold Coast managing director Michael Searle said he had been buoyed by the success of the Tigers because it showed a successful team could be built from the ground up.
The Titans have already signed Luke Bailey, Preston Campbell, Brian Carney and Anthony Laffranchi, and plan to mould their side along the Tigers' lines - a blend of seasoned veterans and home-grown talent.
"We have always admired the Tigers' junior recruitment and development," Searle said. "It has proven to be a great strategy and is something we have spoken about extensively. We have 10,000 juniors under our control and are looking to provide a pathway to the NRL for them. We want the Titans to have a strong local feel, but we also know we need experienced players alongside them, and that is what worked so well for the Tigers."
SMH.com.au