15 StreetSmarts SUNS Academy talents have been named to represent Queensland at the 2026 Marsh AFL National Championships - Under 18 Girls.

Bringing together the country’s leading emerging talent, the championships provide players with the opportunity to test themselves against the best young footballers in Australia on the national stage. 

Queensland will launch its campaign on Sunday June 14 against Victoria Metro at GMHBA Stadium before taking on Victoria Country, South Australia and the Allies in the lead up to July 11.

Under 16 All Australians Lily Moana, Harriet Howe and Tigerlily Nixon earned selection as double-bottom agers following dominant and successful campaigns in the National Development Championships in addition to their efforts when elevated to compete in the final rounds of the Talent League competition.

No doubt, impressive performances across Rounds 6 and 7 of the Talent League, in which Gold Coast commanded 50+ point wins to defeat the Northern Knights 15.13 (103) to 7.3 (45) and Gippsland Power 1.1 (7) to 8.15 (63), earned several SUNS a nod toward Maroons selection.

On both occasions the Gold Coast SUNS delivered consistently across all four quarters showcasing their development in connection and composure across the season.

“I’m incredibly proud of the entire group. The way they’ve worked, connected with one another and improved out of sight across the season has been outstanding,” StreetSmarts SUNS Academy Head Coach of Female Programs Emily Avery shared.

“Congratulations to all the girls selected in the Queensland squad. This is a well-deserved recognition of the hard work, commitment and consistency you’ve shown throughout the Academy program.

“It’s great to see your efforts rewarded, and I’m excited to see you take this opportunity and continue to grow at the next level.”