Gold Coast SUNS ruckman Jarrod Witts says working through new ruck changes during training simulation training with umpires has provided a plenty of clarity heading into the new season.
 
Players are having to adapt to several rule changes that have been implemented for the 2026 season, with a number impacting ruck craft.
 
Among the rule changes are competing ruckmen now being prohibited from crossing the centre line prior to engaging with their opposition at centre bounces.
 
With more than 200 games of AFL experience, the experienced ruckman said the opportunity to work alongside AFL umpires during Thursday’s main training session at People First Stadium was beneficial.
 
"It was great to get a look at it with the umpires and work through some of those new changes," Witts said.
 
"Today was a positive step forward.
 
"I definitely feel like we got a lot more clarity today."
 
The former SUNS captain shared that while there will be an adjustment period, he understands the benefits of the changes and believes that ruck craft will remain as important as ever.
 
“We’re still figuring it out. It’s going to take some reps and some more match simulation and things like that to get an absolute plan and idea,” Witts said.
 
"I think there's going to be a little bit in it for everyone.
 
"No matter what type of ruckmen you are, you're going to get a look at it if you've got good craft.”
 
The 208cm veteran noted, with just five weeks to go until Opening Round and off the back of the club’s first finals appearance in 2025, anticipation is building on the Gold Coast.
 
“Last year was a great stepping stone for us to play finals for the first time, but we’re resetting now,’ commented Witts.
 
“It's a new team. We've got new players here, and we've got to get to work and go again.
 
“We've got high expectations of ourselves. Obviously, finals is the goal for us and without losing foresight of that, we want to focus on our process.”
 

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