Gold Coast SUNS fans will get the chance to see Jaeger O’Meara in action earlier than anticipated after the AFL today granted permission for O’Meara to play in the NAB Cup.

The GC SUNS lodged a formal request with the AFL earlier in the month, requesting that the clubs West Australian recruit, who cannot play senior football until 2013, be allowed to represent the side during the pre-season competition.

O'Meara said he was thrilled with the decision.

"I'm stoked that I will have to chance to play during the nab cup"

"if I am fortunate enough to gain selection it will be really exciting, especially as my family will be over from western Australia then"

O'Meara has enjoyed a fantastic start to his career with the GC SUNS.

"It's been a fantastic few months already, being part of the camp in Arizona was a great way to start my time with the club and I am enjoying the pre-season."

Gold Coast SUNS General Manager – Football Operations, Marcus Ashcroft said the club was extremely pleased with the decision.

“It’s really a fantastic result for Jaeger and our members and supporters.”

“The decision provides Jaeger with the opportunity to get a taste of senior football, all be it in the NAB Cup, early in his time with us.”

“We are scheduled to play two matches during the NAB CUP at home here at Metricon, giving our fans an opportunity to catch an early glimpse of Jaeger, a player we think will play a major role in the long-term future of the club.”

The Gold Coast SUNS starts its NAB Cup against the Brisbane Lions and Melbourne at Metricon Stadium on February 25.

The GC SUNS will face Geelong in the second week of the competition at Metricon Stadium with a third round engagement with Kevin Sheedy and his Giants side in Albury.