At just 18 years of age, Chantay Kiria-Ratu is one of the most exciting prospects in the female game.
Part of the Titans junior development pathway, Kiria-Ratu has progressed through the club's affiliate schools and clubs (Keebra Park State High School and Tweed Seagulls) and now has her sights set on an NRLW contract.
Under Titans NRLW coach and director of female rugby league, Karyn Murphy, the talented playmaker will be able to learn from one of the greats of the game.
"I find it really, I'm very wow about it, because I'm still young," Kiria-Ratu said.
Having moved to Australia from New Zealand in 2011, Kiria-Ratu started playing rugby league at school.
She was quickly identified as an outstanding talent and the Titans have included the young half as part of their NRLW development program over the 2022 seasons.
"I think going through the Titans NRLW and being able to be with them for two seasons in development is something that has helped me learn more skills," she said.
"Being in development and getting to train with the fulltime squad was very exciting, but being able to be contracted and play on the big paddock with the girls is very exciting to me."
Having only turned 18 in October, Kiria-Ratu was too young to debut in the NRLW competition in 2022.
Instead, she represented Queensland in the under-19 series and was selected to play for the Cook Islands in the Rugby League World Cup in the England.
"It was very exciting for me, especially being an 18-year-old heading over to the UK," she said.
"Something that I really took in was representing my family, my culture and all of my people back at home.
"Coming up against one of the best teams, the Jillaroos, and most of them being in the NRLW is something I will remember for ever.
"That game really motivated me to keep going and keep training."
'We want it to be a genuine pathway': Murphy
The Titans have expanded their NRLW Academy, providing a pathway for young female athletes to play elite level rugby league without having to leave their local region.
In an extension to the existing Future Titans female program that has seen a number of players emerge, such Kiria-Ratu, the Academy will continue to deliver expert coaching and development led by experienced staff for 16-19 year old players from Logan to Lismore to achieve their potential.
The 18-year-old says the pathway provided by the Titans has seen her develop to a point where she is ready to graduate to the NRLW competition.
"Coming into the junior Titans development, that really put me where I am today," she said.
"Coming from school league and then into the Titans system that has really helped me get to where I am now.
"I think it is great that the Titans have put in a pathway for the younger lot.
"Being 18, I guess it is a time where I can finally showcase (my skills), have a go and be with the best in the game.
"I'm hoping to secure one (a contract) and I'm still working on what I'll be doing outside of footy."
