With just four weeks until Opening Round, the Gold Coast SUNS continued their pre-season build this week with a match simulation session, marking another step toward the upcoming AFL season.

Speaking after the session, midfielder Lachie Weller said the shift into match-style training was a promising sign of the work the group has put in across the summer.

“That was a big session. The last week or so we’ve started to deal with that match play now, which is pretty exciting,” Weller said. 

“When the strength and conditioning team takes a back step, it’s always a good sign we’re getting closer to the season.

The internal match simulation provided an opportunity to explore role flexibility with a focus on building depth across all three lines.

After playing the majority of his career across half-back and on a wing, Weller spent time through the midfield during the session with the SUNS eyeing versatility across its squad heading into 2026.

“We’ve got a lot of depth through every area,” he said.

“We’re just trying to get a little bit of exposure in different areas. 

“I went to the midfield today, Wil Powell went through, so we’re just trying to change it up a little bit and see if we can share a load throughout the season.”

Weller said the focus on flexibility was part of a broader team-first approach during preseason, with players open to adapting their roles to support the group across a long year.

“To be honest, that was my first time in their [the midfield] for a while,” he said.

“I’m just happy to play whatever role, to be honest.”

With the SUNS set to enjoy a brief break following a demanding training block, Weller said the group felt well placed heading into the next phase of preparation, highlighted by the club’s first pre-season hit out against St Kilda on February 19.

“The boys have put in a massive block,” he said.

“Quickly refresh, and then when we get back. It’s exciting.”

The countdown to the season continues, with upcoming pre-season matches against the Saints and Brisbane Lions.

The SUNS will kick start the year with back-to-back home games at People First Stadium, beginning under Friday night lights against Geelong in Opening Round before welcoming West Coast in Round 1.

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