The Gold Coast Titans appear close to securing the services of Chris Woodbridge, a standout fullback recently recognized as the fastest player in Australian rugby league. The 25-year-old Toowoomba native, who shone throughout the Queensland Cup this season, is set to join the Titans on a train-and-trial contract ahead of their 2027 pre-season, with potential for a full-time NRL deal.

Woodbridge emerged as a dominant force for the Western Clydesdales in the Hostplus Cup, earning multiple accolades at the Queensland Rugby League (QRL) awards. His haul included fullback of the year, rookie of the year, and player of the year honors—a rare trifecta only previously matched by players such as Daly Cherry-Evans. Over 20 games, Woodbridge scored 16 tries, breaking through defences with 48 tackle breaks, 21 try assists, and 12 line breaks, often showcasing long-range efforts.

Clocked at a peak speed of 38.8 kilometers per hour, Woodbridge reportedly recorded the fastest speed ever measured during an Australian rugby league match, surpassing well-known NRL stars including Josh Addo-Carr (38.5 km/h) and Latrell Mitchell (36.6 km/h). This speed and skill set have drawn comparisons to players like Mark Nawaqanitawase, a premiership-winning fullback for the Sydney Roosters.

Ben Walker, coach of the Western Clydesdales and former NRL player with 135 games under his belt, expressed strong confidence in Woodbridge’s potential. “Chris has more than enough talent to make it in the NRL,” Walker said, emphasizing the player’s natural ability and athleticism. He noted Woodbridge’s lack of formal weight training but highlighted that, with proper development and support, the young fullback could become a standout performer at the Titans.

Woodbridge’s relatively late emergence at the elite level is not without precedent. South Sydney star Cody Walker, for example, made his NRL debut at 26 and went on to have a successful career. Such examples suggest Woodbridge still has time to develop physically and adapt to the demands of professional rugby league.

While his current playing weight is 75 kilograms, experts suggest Woodbridge would require a structured strength and conditioning program to prepare for the rigors of the NRL. Walker underscored the importance of patience and a supportive environment for Woodbridge’s transition, highlighting that consistent coaching and training could unlock his full potential.

Train-and-trial contracts have historically served as pathways for players to break into the NRL, with recent cases such as Max Plath and Gehamat Shibasaki progressing from short training stints to State of Origin honors. The Titans appear willing to invest in Woodbridge’s development, potentially adding a highly skilled and exceptionally fast player to their roster in the near future.