Dean Ieremia Finds New Lease on Life with Gold Coast Titans
The Gold Coast Titans have offered a significant lifeline to former Melbourne Storm outside back Dean Ieremia, signing the 24-year-old to a development contract. This move signals a fresh start for Ieremia, whose NRL career has been significantly impacted by a string of debilitating injuries.
Ieremia made his debut for the Storm in 2021, featuring in 24 first-grade matches under the tutelage of Craig Bellamy. However, his promising start was marred by persistent injury setbacks. Notably, he missed the entire 2023 season due to an ACL tear and was sidelined for the first six months of the 2025 season with an Achilles tendon issue. These injuries ultimately led to the Storm opting not to extend his contract, releasing him at the end of the year.
Despite the challenges, Ieremia has embraced the opportunity presented by the Titans, under the guidance of coach Josh Hannay. The development contract means he will not be eligible for NRL selection before Round 12, unless the club decides to upgrade him to their top-30 roster.
Speaking about his move, Ieremia expressed his enthusiasm for the new environment. “I’ve really loved the club and the boys here and am really excited for this new journey at the Titans,” he stated. “The new environment has been an awakening to get out of my comfort zone. I was a local boy in Melbourne who just wanted to be comfortable, but it’s been good being in unknown waters. I want to leap into the water ahead instead of just dipping my toes in. It’s going to be a long journey, but I’m willing to put in the hard yards and be the player the boys want to play with.”
Ieremia has been a consistent presence on the training field throughout the Titans’ pre-season, impressing Hannay with his dedication and work ethic. Should he earn a spot in the top-grade, he will face stiff competition for a place in the backline from a talented group of players, including:
- Siale Faeamani
- Jojo Fifita
- Max Feagai
- Allan Fitzgibbon
- Jaylan De Groot
- Tony Francis
Titans Boost Squad Depth with Key Upgrades
In further positive news for the Gold Coast club, the Titans have also elevated two players from development deals to their top-30 NRL squad. Jensen Taumoepeau, another versatile outside back, and Jett Liu, a promising forward, have both earned promotions, reflecting their strong performances and commitment during the pre-season.
Coach Josh Hannay was effusive in his praise for the duo. “Jensen and Jett have shown a continued hunger to better themselves as players over the pre-season and I’m pleased we can elevate them as a reward for their hard work,” Hannay commented. “We’ve wanted to raise the floor of our squad this year and these two have been part of that journey by making the most of their new opportunity, pressing their claims to earn a spot in our Round 1 team.”
Hannay emphasised that these elevations are not solely based on talent. “Elevations like this aren’t just about talent; they’re about attitude and commitment. Jensen and Jett have demonstrated both in spades.”
The signings and upgrades highlight the Titans’ strategic approach to building a competitive squad for the upcoming NRL season, focusing on player development, hard work, and a strong team culture. Ieremia’s journey with the Gold Coast club will be closely watched as he aims to overcome his injury woes and re-establish himself as a force in the NRL.
