Gold Coast Chief Executive Andrew Travis says the club’s commitment to the growth of women’s football has never been stronger notwithstanding the club’s decision not to bid for a licence for a national team in 2017.

“The club is committed to our women’s strategy and is really looking forward to being a part of the league in the future,” Mr Travis said.

“We reviewed the AFL’s bid document thoroughly and determined we are not in a position to bid for a licence in 2017. “

Travis said there were a number of factors that led to the SUNS decision not to bid for a licence in 2017.

“There were several observations and insights throughout the bid process that became clear,” Mr Travis said.

“Significantly, it has taken us nearly ten years to build an expansion club, (GC 17, Under 18’s, VFL AFL) and we must maintain our focus on building the SUNS into a club that we plan it to be.

“We believe it would also be logical to put in place a three to five year program for a National Women’s League team to evolve on the Gold Coast.”

Mr Travis said the club would continue to grow Australia’s game in Queensland.

“The SUNS are a community based club, we are here because the Gold Coast community wanted an AFL club and was prepared to rise up and run a successful campaign to secure an AFL licence, and we know our community supports women’s football.”

“We have worked hard to promote the growth of AFL in Queensland, with participation in the women’s game, junior football Auskick up 82% overall.”

“We will continue to run our women’s football programs, and look forward to establishing and growing a pathway for women to play at the highest possible level, like we have with the SUNS Talent Academy and the Jarrod Harbrow Leadership Academy.”