NRLW 2024: Des Hasler tipped Titans NRLW coach Karyn Murphy off about Georgia Grey
Rugby sevens convert and NRLW debutant Georgia Grey would never have been on the Titans radar if it wasn’t for Des Hasler’s keen eye. More here.
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Des Hasler is known for his work as an NRL coach, but it turns out he could also make a handy scout.
Gold Coast Titans off-season recruit Georgia Grey is set to make her NRLW debut just two weeks into the season, and coach Karyn Murphy revealed it was actually Hasler who encouraged her to take a look at the union convert before she was picked up.
“’Desi’ gave me a tip on ‘Gigi’ (Georgia Grey) in the off-season, knowing her and the family from down home at the northern beaches,” Murphy revealed.
“(So I) had a had a look at her up at rugby here locally, and she’s an athlete.
“You’ll see she’s an athlete. She’s obviously learning our game coming from rugby, she started in our development list and worked her way into our top 24 with some injuries, and she’s learning every session.”
Grey’s debut came earlier than expected for an injury to Karina Brown in round one.
“It’s exciting for the girls making their debuts and to be able to tell her that yesterday, her and her family are definitely excited,” Murphy said.
Grey has strong ties to rugby union given she is the daughter of former Wallaby Nathan Grey and her godfather is Rugby Australia CEO Phil Waugh.
She had been playing both rugby sevens and first XV union for Bond University.
“The opportunity came up with the Titans and I am someone who loves change,” Grey told Bond University in June after the Titans picked her up.
“It’s a bit nerve-wracking that I haven’t played my first game of league yet.
“It’s pretty rare that girls who have never played league before get drafted like this.
“It will be a massive year of learning and I am excited to keep growing and learning the rules of the game.”
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