With 11 new recruits on board, competition for selection is at an all-time high on the eve of the Gold Coast SUNS AFLW season.

The SUNS presented one final opportunity to impress in Sunday’s QClash match simulation against Brisbane.

SUNS co-captain Lucy Single said the club's strong list depth has created healthy competition throughout the pre-season.

"There's a good push for selection, which is making healthy competition out at training and it’s showing out in games as well,” Single shared.

"The young girls have come into our team already primed and ready to go. Honestly, it feels like they've been here for years already.

"As a whole, everyone's raising the bar, which is also bringing the young girls along with us."

As she prepares for her second season as Gold Coast’s co-captain, Single reflected on her first year as a leader.

"It's a massive honour to be able to do it the second time around," the 23-year-old said.

“It was obviously a rough year for us, but a big positive that came out was lots of learnings.

“There were some hard conversations that had to be had, but it's honestly made us stronger and it helped me build connections with the girls.”

Alongside the SUNS AFLW leaders, Single has been developing her leadership skills under former SUNS AFL captain Dave Swallow.

"Dave’s had plenty of experience with the Gold Coast SUNS, so learning from him has been a massive thing for us," the StreetSmarts SUNS Academy graduate said.

"We're picking him apart, trying to get different pieces of advice from him."

While the focus remains on Sunday night, the squad will also be proudly supporting Irish teammates Niamh McLaughlin and Clara Fitzpatrick in the 2026 NAB AFLW Australia v Ireland match.

"We love Niamh and Clara so much, so to be able to watch them play and represent their culture is awesome," Single added.

Cheer on the SUNS in the AFL/AFLW double header this Sunday with a valid ticket to the AFL Round 21 clash. The AFL kicks off at 3:15pm before the AFLW gets underway at 6:20pm.

Event shuttles from Nerang Station, Boowaggan Road and Broadbeach South have been extended.