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There is a note of contentment in Kieran Foran’s voice when he is asked to reflect on his illustrious – and at times, tumultuous – NRL career, as he prepares to take the field for the 318th and final time.
But, when the topic shifts to his next career move, one of rugby league’s most fearless warriors becomes impassioned.
Derailed by injuries – amounting to 18 surgeries – and off-field dramas which threatened to end his career, the Gold Coast Titans veteran’s refusal to throw in the towel will remain his greatest legacy.
However, once the full-time whistle sounds in Saturday’s clash with the Wests Tigers, Foran’s attention will turn to his next responsibility: fostering the club’s next half to spearhead a revival from the doldrums.
“The people here are some of the most incredible people I’ve met. They really are so determined and driven to bring success to the Gold Coast, and I ride that with them and am on that journey with them,” Foran declares.
“It’s been a wonderful ride, and I’m excited for the next chapter.”
Kieran Foran will play for the Gold Coast at home for the last time before retiring.Credit: Gold Coast Titans Media
While Titans chief executive Steve Mitchell has hinted at recruitment on the horizon after a fourth straight year spent dwelling in the NRL cellars, Foran is adamant his heir is already at Parkwood.
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Wallabies 2023 Rugby World Cup five-eighth Carter Gordon will make his NRL debut at centre, having missed most of the year with a spinal issue, while teenager Zane Harrison is steadily developing his craft.
Jayden Campbell has also been earmarked as a halfback.
“I’ve been super-impressed with JC and his growth this year. I think he’s really moulded himself into a No.7, and I think he’s got great aspirations to be the long-term seven for this club,” Foran says.
“I think he can do it. Then Carter Gordon has shown his dedication and determination to come back from where he was at the start of the year.
“He’s the sort of guy you want to have in your team. I just love the traits Carter possesses.
“I love his toughness, I love his durability, I love his application and dedication to want to get better and learn this game inside and out. That’s going to hold him in really good stead.”
Foran has the life experience to help nurture the next generation and ensure they do not suffer from the same pitfalls he once did.
His early career struggles have been widely documented: the highs of his premiership triumph at Manly nearly forgotten as addiction and mental health demons nearly forced him away from the game.
Kieran Foran ahead of his final NRL appearance.Credit: Gold Coast Titans Media
“I never felt that I’d truly reached my potential. Each year I’ve pulled apart my game and looked at new areas I could get better at,” Foran reveals, when asked what kept him going.
“I never felt I’d maximised what I’d set out to do. Now I truly do feel like I’ve reached that point.”
Foran now sees Harrison, a former Australian schoolboys representative, as his long-term project.
The Titans have struggled to lock down a long-term halfback since Scott Prince’s days – Jamal Fogarty, Jahrome Hughes, Toby Sexton and Tanah Boyd all playing finals in rival colours.
But Foran believes his past and Harrison’s future can help rewrite that narrative.
“He’s got a huge future ahead of him and is a guy who can have a long and illustrious career in the NRL as a playmaker,” Foran says.
“I see a lot of similarities in Zane in terms of his journey straight out of high school and into the NRL world. It can be quite a big step-up and a big challenge, but he really is a guy who takes it all in his stride.
“He’s unfazed by the pressure that comes with it ... I think a really significant preseason for him will be really important. He’s certainly smart and classy enough to handle the step-up.
“I can help them through that process from a mental standpoint. That’s what my journey has taught me, how to handle the highs and lows better.
“I’ve got wonderful experience in that space, and am able to educate and fast-track these guys about what’s around the corner before it hits them in the face.”
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Before that mission, Foran intends to send him and long-time coach Des Hasler out winners.
The 35-year-old also reveals he is eager to represent New Zealand in the Pacific Championships, having amassed 31 Test caps.
“I’d never knock back the opportunity to represent my country, and if [coach] Stacey [Jones] and the Kiwis feel they need me playing then I certainly will make myself available,” Foran admits.
“It’d be an unbelievable way to finish up. I was a part of it two years ago, and we won, and it was one of the greatest moments of my career.”
If not, Foran’s career will end the same way it started: by Hasler’s side, who will be replaced at the helm by Josh Hannay.
“Des has been one of those coaches throughout my career who has believed in me so much,” Foran says.
“When I was written off and not many people believed there was anything left in me, Des has always believed I’ve got more to give.
“I was talking to my wife Karina last night about how blessed I’ve been. It’s been quite incredible really.”
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