The Gold Coast SUNS VFL pre-season hit out against the Brisbane Lions on Thursday provided a valuable opportunity to test the SUNS system and build connection.
VFL Head Coach & Head Of Development Tate Kaesler shared there were several positives taken from the match despite going down to the Lions by just 5 points (78 to 73).
“The good part about today was we only had eight listed AFL players, so it was an opportunity for our VFL-listed players and under-19 top-ups to come together for the first time and try to implement our game style,” Kaesler said.
“We were really pleased with the way the boys went about it in terms of understanding our system and showing intent in how they played.
“Overall, there were positive growth areas we can continue working on.”
With several new combinations across the field, building chemistry was a key theme throughout the session.
“It was the first time we’ve played together, so it’s not going to be perfect,” Kaesler said.
“But our ability to stay connected through our lines and understand what we were trying to do was really important.”
A number of SUNS showed encouraging signs including Tasmanian draftee Avery Thomas who played his first full game with the VFL squad.
“Avery showed today he’s got some real AFL traits going forward,” Kaesler said.
2025 Mid-Season Rookie Recruit Caleb Lewis produced one of the standout performances of the session despite limited pre-season preparation, finishing with six shots on goal, converting four and taking several strong marks.
“It just shows what this guy can do,” Kaesler said.
“We’re looking forward to seeing his future development.”
Defender Caleb Graham was also influential across half-back, recording a number of intercept marks, while Dylan Patterson showcased his offensive strengths.
“We were really excited with what we saw from both our AFL-listed players and the guys we saw for the first time in the match simulation,” Kaesler added.
While the squad features strong young talent, Kaesler said development and system understanding remain the priority for the VFL program.
“We have a really high-end talent pool in our VFL squad this year but these guys still have to come in and learn our system and understand the way we want to play.
“The more players we can get into our system and teach them how to execute at AFL level, the better we position ourselves for success.”
The Head of Development highlighted Leo Lombard’s progression over the summer after spending significant time developing his craft in the VFL last season.
The second year SUN earned himself the opportunity to step up and take on the Lions in the AAMI Community Series AFL match.
“Leo understands his role better now and there’s real clarity in his game,” Kaesler
“There’s real growth in the way he’s playing.”
The SUNS VFL program will continue refining combinations and building cohesion as preparations for the 2026 season progress.
The SUNS next take on Southport Sharks in this Friday afternoon as a curtain raiser to the AFL. Entry is FREE for all SUNS members or valid AFL ticket holders.
