Jayden Campbell reflects on his family history with the Titans after smashing individual records

Jayden Campbell bared his teeth through injury as he broke records and penned another chapter in his family’s storied history with the Titans. Why he feels indebted to the club.

The Campbell name is already etched deep into Gold Coast Titans history.

But on Saturday, newfound five-eighth Jayden Campbell penned another chapter as his 26-point effort broke the club record for the most points scored in a game.

While he was at it, he shattered the record for most goals kicked – previously held by Jamal Fogarty with eight – nailing all 11 attempts in a stunning display.

It was a performance to make father Preston, the club’s inaugural signing back in 2005 and its first-ever life member, very proud.

Jayden Campbell said he was simply pleased to give back to the club and community that played a role in the “great life” he’s been able to lead.

“They’ve given me a great life, the Gold Coast is a beautiful part of the world, I just love being around here and want to give back to (everyone on the Gold Coast),” he said.

“It’s not so much to my old man, I love him, but it’s for the club.

“I didn’t really understand it growing up but the Titans have done a lot for my family, they gave my dad a way to provide for us, it’s just for me to give back to the club.”

Jayden Campbell in action against the Warriors.

While he’s always been a goal-kicker, Campbell attributed the guidance of new Titans goal-kicking coach ‘Hilly’ - Andrew Hill - to his masterclass against the Warriors.

“He’s helped us a lot, he’s just given us a few pointers, if I think too much about it that’s when I start to miss goals, but he’s pretty helpful, he just tells me to make sure my running’s smooth and just kick the ball really,” Campbell said.

“Brad Davidson (assistant coach) has helped me a lot too, I really appreciate the both of them.”

Campbell had been under heavy scrutiny prior to the Warriors clash, but coach Des Hasler’s confidence in his 24-year-old playmaker never wavered.

It was a significant contributor to the scintillating showing he produced on Saturday.

“People seem to forget I’ve only played two games (at five-eighth) and I’m coming back from two knee injuries. People don’t understand that footy’s not just a physical game, it’s a mental game too,” he said.

“I just needed time to find my stride, I’m hoping to pick up a lot of confidence this game but I know myself and the player I am and where I can play.

“Having Des back me gives me a lot of confidence and makes me want to play my best footy for him.”

Jayden Campbell of the Titans kicks during the round 16 NRL match between Gold Coast Titans and New Zealand Warriors. Picture: Chris Hyde/Getty Images.

Not only is Campbell confident he can play his best footy at the Titans, he’s confident he can do so in the No.6 jersey long-term.

“I’ve got a lot of work still but if that’s where the club wants me to be then I’ll be there,” he said.

He also welcomed former Melbourne Rebel and rising Wallabies star Carter Gordon - who was watching on at CBUS Super Stadium on Saturday - despite the competition he will bring.

“I’ve met him this week and he seems like a really good bloke, he’s a big body so just to have him at the club is great,” Campbell said.

“There’s always going to be competition for spots and it makes players better.”

It’s hoped that Campbell can notch his 50th appearance in the Titans next outing in round 18, however he will be sweating on Sunday afternoon’s scan results after his hand showed signs of swelling post-match.

It comes as he avoided suspension after being placed on report for a dangerous tackle on Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad in the 28th minute against the Warriors.

Originally published as Jayden Campbell reflects on his family history with the Titans after smashing individual records