People are tending to forget this is not solely about the Gold Coast Titans - this is about Steve Turner. There have been instances where this has happened before (see Gordon Tallis in 1996). Tallis was not allowed to play for the broncos that year because the rules did not allow it. He was forced to make a decision as well - fulfil his contract, or spend a year on the sidelines. Tallis missed an entire year because he wanted to play for Brisbane. Turner faces the same decision.
This is a decision that is forced, not by the proposed anti-Storm NRL agenda, but by the rule book. The titans obviously see Turner as a required player next year, hence their insistence he fulfills his word. I don't know why they have pushed so strongly for him, considering he has shown reluctance for playing with them, but they are entitled to do that. The Titans have recently decided to offer a compromise (something that they did not have to do). Therefore, Turner can spend 3 years on the sidelines, or spend a year with the Titans and make his decision. Playing with Melbourne in season 2007 is not an option.
I think it is very encouraging to see the way the new club has handled the situation. They are not going to be bullied and end up at the same place previous Gold Coast teams have gone. They have recruited hard workers and talented players, a good coach, and a fantastic support staff. The new stadium is being constructed, and there is a buzz, not just around the Coast, but throughout the entire South East corner. Previous Coast teams were a place for party-goers and retirees. That is not going to happen this time around. Players at their prime like Prince and Bailey would not leave their successful clubs to join a sub-par team.
I am not a Titans supporter. However, they have gained a lot of respect out of this whole situation - something that is reflected in the Queensland and NSW media. On the other hand, Turner has been made to look like a sook who is having a bit of a tantrum.