Gary Ablett spoke with goldcoastfc.com.au earlier today and answered five questions for Gold Coast SUNS members and fans.

How would you rate the GC SUNS' 2014 season?

The first half of the season was fantastic, I think we really showed what we are capable of and to be sitting up at the right end of the ladder certainly means you enjoy it a lot more. Unfortunately we were unable to sustain it, and the season ended without us getting a taste of finals footy. But I believe we will be better from that and the boys are hungry and motivated knowing there is plenty that can be achieved in 2015.

David Swallow became the first player, other than yourself, to be crowned Club Champion. How would you evaluate his season?

I was rapt for him; he had great year. David has worked really hard to take his game to another level and has been rewarded for it. He sets a great example off the field; he is dedicated at training and his preparation is first class. He always had talent, but his growth as a player has been as a result of hard work, and that’s a great example for all our players.

It was an extremely close finish to the count. Did the right man win?

I think so, but in saying that, I think either David, Tom or Dion would have been worthy winners, and as you said, it was close; I think only ten votes split the three of them. The thing that pleases me most with those guys finishing in the top three is that they were all elected to the player leadership group at the start of the year and it shows they have thrived with that added responsibility. That’s important for us going forward.

You’ve just been awarded your eighth consecutive All-Australian guernsey. Are you humbled by that acknowledgement?

Definitely! September is a great time of the year, although it’s always better when you are playing finals footy. Every year it’s overwhelming to make the team. There are so many great players across the competition and guys that you would love to play with on a regular basis. There’s a few guys that are chasing me, with Lance Franklin, Nick Riewoldt and Scott Pendlebury all picking up their fifth selection.

We all know you missed seven matches after shoulder surgery. Despite that, you are still second favourite for the Brownlow Medal. How will you approach the night?

To be honest, like last year, I will go along and enjoy it. It’s always a great night and whoever wins will well and truly deserve the honour. I’m looking forward to seeing how the other boys on the table poll also. Dion Prestia, David Swallow, Tom Lynch and Harley Bennell will be on our table, and I’m pretty confident we will be picking up more votes than we have in previous seasons.