The Gold Coast SUNS are continuing to build towards the 2026 AFL season with a clear focus on connection, clarity and cohesion across the ground.
Last Thursday night’s match simulation against St Kilda provided an important step in that process, allowing the coaching group to assess combinations, reinforce roles and give players valuable exposure against AFL opposition.
Following the first taste of opposition last Thursday night, forwards assistant coach Brad Miller’s biggest takeaway was simple; providing opportunities across the board.
“We played our whole squad,” Miller said.
“It’s a good hit out with an opposition that’s not us.”
While the minutes were important, Miller’s attention remains focused on the developing chemistry inside forward 50 as the structure continues to take shape.
Miller acknowledged steps forward made throughout pre-season, including off-season recruit Jamarra Ugle-Hagan who continues to embed himself within the SUNS system.
“Jamarra has played a certain way for some time and now he has to come in and fit into our system, we have seen plenty positive of signs over the summer,” Miller added.
“He just has to build on that base that he has developed but it’s just more about playing that role so he is in the right place, right time for how we play.”
StreetSmarts SUNS Academy Jed Walter’s growth follows a similar blueprint, with role execution and awareness central to the forward group’s progression.
“Like Jamarra, Jed has to do the same – play his role but also develop an awareness around what the other key forwards are doing.
“The chemistry just has to go to another level to be hard to play against all the time, that’s the key.”
A bright spot across the summer has been Leo Lombard, whose growth has impressed the coaching staff. The second-year SUNS forward underlined his progress by kicking Gold Coast’s opening goal on Thursday night.
“The greatest change we have seen with Leo is his understanding of the role that he plays. The acceptance of that role then is just taking it to a whole new level and allowing his strengths to come through.”
“He’s thinking less about the role because he knows it, so now he can just play. So we're starting to see some of his strengths come through.
“That’s a really exciting prospect for us.”
Attention now shifts to another significant pre-season test. On Thursday, February 26, the Gold Coast SUNS will travel up the M1 to take on the Lions under the lights at Brighton Homes Arena in their 2026 AAMI Community Series fixture.
Facing the competition’s benchmark, the reigning back-to-back premiers, presents a valuable measuring stick.
“It’s only a practice game but it’s a curtain raiser to the opening round,” Miller said.
“We will definitely be able to test where we’re at.”
With roles sharpening and connection continuing to build, the coming fortnight will provide with a strong indication of the SUNS’ readiness for the 2026 AFL season ahead.
Opening Round is right around the corner, don’t miss out on the hottest tickets in town and be there on Friday March 6 at People First Stadium. Secure your SUNS membership today.
