In her ninth AFLW season, Gold Coast SUNS vice-captain Maddy Brancatisano has overcome a preseason ankle injury to play an important role in the club's midfield resurgence.

The 26-year-old is averaging 16 disposals across her nine games this season, with Head Coach Rhyce Shaw pleased with what she's brought to the side since returning in Round 2.

"She's so important, she's such a link for our team. She's very unselfish, a great teammate," Shaw said.

"She's a great leader and she leads by example, gets the job done and no fuss.

"I think we have different strengths in there and Mads is one that brings everyone together, so she's had a great year and hopefully that continues."

Speaking to media on Tuesday, the midfielder said she has had a front-row seat to how Charlie Rowbottom, Lucy Single and ruck Darcie Davies have all taken their games to another level this season.

"I think everyone's taken their game to a whole different level. Charlie, you couldn't think she could get any better and then she does," Brancatisano said.

"Lucy's just using her weapon, bursting out of the pack, and Darcie's just giving us first use.

"I think this year it's really come together and we just love playing for each other and selfless roles, whatever it takes for each person to use their strengths is what we're doing."

After a challenging few seasons on the Gold Coast, the vice-captain has enjoyed seeing the SUNS turn things around, with the younger players also bringing a new energy to the group.

"After last year, who would have thought this is what this year would be like?" Brancatisano said.

"It's kind of been a rollercoaster from the last couple of years to now."

The midfielder also reflected on the influence of the retiring inaugural SUN Jamie Stanton, who has been a close friend and teammate since arriving at the club in 2023.

"She's one of my best mates off-field and she's a ripper on-field," Brancatisano said.

"I love playing with her and she's been here since I came into the club. I always learn from her every day and we'll miss her a lot."

Despite the disappointment of last weekend's loss against the Crows, the SUNS are now looking towards their next challenge, with the former Tiger set to face her old side, Richmond, this weekend.

The Round 11 clash is the SUNS' first AFLW RizeUp Round at People First Stadium, which supports Major Charity Partner RizeUp.

"It's RizeUp Round as well and the first time we get to have that in the W. So that's super cool," Brancatisano said.

"I hope everyone can get down. It's a great cause that we're getting behind."

The SUNS' final home game of the home-and-away season starts at 4.05pm AEST on Saturday, October 24, 2026.