Foundation Gold Coast SUNS assistant coach Dean Solomon will return to the club ahead of the 2027 AFL season.

Solomon held the position of SUNS assistant coach between 2011 and 2020 and will join senior coach Damien Hardwick’s coaching panel in 2027.

In recent years, he has held several positions at both GWS and Essendon, most recently as the Bombers’ caretaker senior coach in 2026.

Solomon formed part of the club’s inaugural coaching panel under Guy McKenna following a 209-game playing career at both Fremantle and Essendon.

Solomon said he was excited to return to the Gold Coast.

“The opportunity to return to the Gold Coast SUNS to work alongside and learn from Damien Hardwick and an experienced group of coaches is one I'm really excited by,” Solomon said.

"The potential of the list that has been assembled is incredibly inviting and I see it as an exciting time to be part of the SUNS.

“I’m looking forward to forming strong connections, rolling up my sleeves and working closely with everyone involved to ensure we bring success to the coast.

“The Gold Coast and Northern New South Wales has been home for my family and I for over 16 years now, so to be able to be with my wife and kids again and still coach at the highest level at a club where I’ve previously spent 10 years, is something I’m very grateful for.”

Gold Coast SUNS General Manager of Football Craig Cameron welcomed Solomon back to the club.

"We’re pleased to welcome Dean back to our football club in 2027,” Cameron said.

“Dean played a significant role across our club’s first decade in the competition, and his expertise and industry experience will be instrumental in helping us take steps forward in the years ahead.

“We will confirm the finer details of our 2027 coaching panel structure in the coming weeks.”