- Brock Gray debuted for the Gold Coast Titans aged 28
- He is also at the centre of an unlikely romantic story
In a remarkable twist of fate, love has united two rugby league families – the Gray brothers and the Penitani sisters.
Brock Gray, an inspiring story of footballing perseverance who made his NRL debut for the Gold Coast Titans on Sunday, is at the heart of their unique story.
Brock first met Natasha Penitani at a family Christmas event over seven years ago.
Natasha, a rising star and Wests Tigers prop in the NRLW, is the younger sister of Tiana Penitani, captain of the Sharks NRLW side and Australian Jillaroos standout.
The couple’s introduction was thanks to their siblings, Aaron Gray and Tiana Penitani, who themselves have been together for around ten years and are now married.
Aaron, a former NRL player with the Rabbitohs and Sharks, and Tiana, a trailblazing figure in women’s rugby league, helped bring Brock and Natasha together.
Former NRL star Aaron Gray and his wife Tiana Penitani, a Cronulla and Jillaroos star, have been together for about a decade
Brock Gray and Natasha Penitani first met at a family Christmas dinner over seven years ago
Despite having four elite rugby league players at family gatherings, Brock insists there’s no rivalry.
‘We don’t talk too much footy at the dinner table, so there’s no real rivalries going on,’ Brock said.
Tiana, an inspirational figure in women’s sport, credits her husband Aaron for his supportive role in managing her busy schedule, which includes being a dermal therapist and regular appearances as an analyst on Fox League.
‘He’s fantastic,’ Tiana said.
‘He encourages me to take a step back because he knows when I burn out, it’s proper mental burnout. He’s the little angel on my shoulder.’
Natasha, inspired by Tiana’s success, quickly climbed the ranks herself.
After a period of uncertainty about her sporting future, she joined the Sharks in the NSW Women’s Premiership and soon represented Tonga internationally.
Natasha was nominated for the NRLW Dally M Rookie of the Year in 2024, and alongside rugby league, she maintains a demanding full-time role with the NSW Police Force.
Brock Gray showed persistence pays off by making his NRL debut for the Gold Coast Titans aged 28
Tiana Penitani is a Jillaroos mainstay and one of the best athletes in the NRLW
Brock Gray’s debut at age 28 marked the end of a long and persistent journey.
Having amassed 129 NSW Cup appearances, Brock finally got his chance with the Titans against Canterbury at Belmore.
After joining the Titans on a train-and-trial contract, Brock impressed coach Des Hasler in pre-season training, securing his spot in the first-grade side.
‘Training under Des has been such a tough but rewarding experience,’ Brock said.
‘I’m learning so much from him and the senior boys in that forward pack.’
Gray described the Titans’ pre-season as the hottest he’s ever experienced, but he’s determined to make the most of his opportunity with the Titans.
‘It was really tough missing nine rounds last year,’ Brock said.
‘But the boys helped me through it, and now I’m ready to deliver my best football.’
