GOOD NEWS:Titans Fan of the Year Stephani Perkins Makes Triumphant Return: A Look at Her Return to…
*Gold Coast, December 23, 2024* — It’s not every day that a sports fan becomes a living legend, but for Stephani Perkins, the Gold Coast Titans’ “Fan of the Year,” her story has become one of inspiration, community spirit, and unwavering loyalty. After a brief absence, Perkins made a triumphant return to the Titans’ home ground this weekend, earning her place once again in the hearts of both players and fans. Her return has sparked an outpouring of affection and admiration, as the Titans organization and their supporters celebrated the reappearance of a woman who has become an iconic figure in the club’s history.
For Perkins, her return to the stadium was an emotional one. “Being away from the Titans for the past few months has been tough,” Perkins said, with a smile that reflected the depth of her passion for the club. “But being back here with my Titans family feels like home. I’ve missed this atmosphere, the excitement, and most of all, the amazing people who make this club what it is.”
### **A Journey of Dedication and Passion**
Stephani Perkins’ relationship with the Gold Coast Titans stretches back over a decade. A diehard fan from the very first season of the club’s existence, Perkins quickly became a fixture at home games, always present to cheer on her beloved team, no matter the result. Her infectious energy and boundless enthusiasm earned her the nickname “Titan’s Spirit” from other fans, and she soon became known for her passionate chants, creative signs, and unwavering support in the stands.
In 2023, Perkins’ loyalty and dedication to the Titans were officially recognized when she was named “Fan of the Year.” The honor came after years of service to the team, both as a regular fixture at games and through her volunteer work within the local community, where she worked tirelessly to promote the Titans and foster a sense of unity and pride among Gold Coast residents.
Her nomination for Fan of the Year was not only about her consistent attendance and spirited presence but also about her role in embodying what the Titans stood for — resilience, determination, and unity. “Stephani’s passion is contagious,” said Gold Coast Titans CEO, Stuart Tuckwell, at the time of her award. “She’s more than just a fan; she’s a symbol of what this club represents. Her unwavering support for the team is an inspiration to everyone around her.”
But this year, Perkins had to take a step back from her usual duties at the stadium. Personal reasons, combined with the demands of life outside the game, kept her away from the Titans community for several months. Despite her absence, fans never stopped talking about her, and many expressed their eagerness to see her return to the stadium where she had become such a beloved figure.
### **A Warm Welcome Back**
On her return this weekend, the energy in the stadium was electric. Fans cheered wildly as Perkins entered the ground, wearing her signature Titans jersey and holding a hand-painted sign that read, “The Spirit of the Titans is back!” It was an emotional reunion between Perkins and the crowd that had missed her infectious enthusiasm.
The team also made sure to give Perkins a special welcome back. Several players, including captain Tino Fa’asuamaleaui and veteran winger Brian Kelly, were seen giving Perkins a warm embrace and thanking her for the unwavering support she has given them over the years. Fa’asuamaleaui, who has known Perkins for many years, expressed his gratitude on social media: “Stephani is one of the most passionate people you’ll ever meet. Having her back in the stands is a reminder of the strength of our community and the special bond we share with our fans. She’s been part of the Titans family from day one, and it’s great to see her back where she belongs.”
The club made sure that Perkins’ return was an unforgettable one. She was invited to a special VIP section at the stadium, where she was presented with a commemorative jersey by the Titans staff, marking her as an integral part of the team’s journey. The surprise presentation was met with cheers from the crowd, many of whom were longtime fans who had witnessed Perkins’ journey with the team over the years.
“I can’t even put into words how much this means to me,” Perkins said tearfully as she held up the jersey. “I’ve always believed in this club, and to be recognized like this is just beyond anything I could’ve imagined. Thank you to the Titans, to the players, and to all of the fans who have supported me through thick and thin. I’m so proud to be back with my team.”
### **A Symbol of Fan Loyalty and Community**
Stephani Perkins is more than just a dedicated supporter — she’s a symbol of the loyalty that runs deep in the Gold Coast Titans fanbase. Over the years, Perkins has become an integral part of the team’s community outreach efforts, often volunteering her time to help with events, charity work, and activities aimed at engaging fans both young and old. Her commitment to growing the Titans’ brand and ensuring the club’s presence in the community has made her a role model for many other fans.
“It’s easy to be a fan when things are going well,” said Perkins, reflecting on the ups and downs she has experienced as a supporter of the Titans. “But being a true fan means sticking with the team through thick and thin. It means cheering them on even when they’re facing challenges, and it means being there for the community no matter what. That’s what it means to be a Titan.”
Perkins’ return is a reminder of the power of community within sport. While the players on the field are the ones who earn the accolades, it’s the supporters — those like Perkins who are there week in and week out — who create the environment that makes sports so special. Her return underscores how the Gold Coast Titans, while a professional sports team, are also a community-driven organization that thrives because of the loyalty and passion of fans like her.
### **Perkins’ Continued Commitment to the Titans**
Although Perkins has returned to the stadium, her role in the Titans community extends beyond simply attending games. She has expressed a desire to continue working on various initiatives aimed at connecting with local youth, fostering the next generation of Titans fans, and encouraging community engagement through sport.
“I want to be able to help inspire kids on the Gold Coast, to show them that being a fan is about more than just watching the game,” Perkins said. “It’s about being part of something bigger than yourself, about supporting a team that represents everything that’s good about our community. I hope that through my work, I can help others feel the same sense of pride and belonging that I feel when I wear this jersey.”
With Perkins back in the stands, the Gold Coast Titans are undoubtedly feeling the impact of her return. The energy in the stadium is palpable, and it’s clear that the fanbase has been reinvigorated by her presence. Whether it’s through her role as an ambassador for the club or simply by continuing to cheer on her team with unparalleled passion, Perkins’ return is a testament to the enduring power of sport and the bonds that unite teams with their supporters.
### **A Glimpse Into the Future**
Looking ahead, Perkins has already set her sights on continuing her work with the Titans, especially as the club prepares for the 2025 NRL season. With a number of exciting young players coming through the ranks and the club looking to build on their recent successes, Perkins’ role as a passionate supporter and community figure will continue to be crucial in the team’s long-term growth.
“I’m just so excited for what’s ahead,” Perkins said. “The Titans have an amazing future, and I can’t wait to be part of it. I’ll be there, cheering them on every step of the way, and I know that together, we can achieve great things.”
As the Titans’ fan of the year, Stephani Perkins has already secured her place in the club’s storied history. Her return to the stadium is a reminder of the heart and soul that drives every successful sports team — the fans. The Titans are lucky to have such a devoted and passionate supporter, and with Perkins back on the sidelines, it’s clear that the club’s future is as bright as ever.