Injured for much of the 2022 season, Titans backrower Joe Vuna has returned to pre-season determined to play NRL consistently in 2023.
Debuting for the Titans in round 13, 2021 against the Storm, Joe suffered a ruptured ACL later in the year playing for Titans affiliates Tweed Seagulls that would end his season.
Vuna spent much of 2022 recovering from the injury and now, returning to pre-season full time ahead of 2023, the young forward has set his sights on returning to the NRL squad.
“Speaking to the coaches earlier this year, I actually told them my goals for the first time.
“I want to be a consistent NRL player so that’s definitely my mindset leading into the new year and hopefully I can switch it on.”
To achieve this goal, the 24 year old knows he will need an injury free pre-season as he looks to impress the Titans coaching staff.
“I think first I have to keep myself healthy and fit and avoid getting injured.
“The last couple of years I’ve been here I’ve been injured so hopefully I can stay fit this year and get amongst it.”
Player Media: Joe Vuna
The Titans forward pack has been bolstered by the signings of backrower Joe Stimson and hooker Sam Verrills, adding to a roster of strong forwards looking to cement their position in the top 17 for Round 1.
Speaking on the depth of the Titans pack, Joe singled out Tino Fa’asuamaleaui, David Fifita and Beau Fermor as leaders within the pack that he is excited to learn from.
“It’s their work ethic, not just on the field but off the field.
“It’s the little things they do; the attention to detail, the recovery they’re doing, all those little things they’re doing.”
Entering his fifth week of pre-season, Vuna is 6 kilos lighter than last season and ready to emulate that work ethic to earn his position come Round 1.
