Our Story
The Gold Coast SUNS were established in 2009 with the promise of bringing bold, fresh, community-focused football to the people of the Gold Coast, a community they share a deep connection with.
The SUNS have worked hard to promote the growth of AFL in Queensland, with participation in junior football, the women’s game and Auskick programs up 82% overall.
In the last nine years the club and players have committed to more than 45,000 community volunteering hours with a strong focus on key social projects tackling domestic violence, youth homelessness and regional needs. This, combined with the development of Metricon Stadium and an average contribution to the local economy of some $38 million per year, means the the SUNS are not only part of the future of Australian football but also an integral part of the Gold Coast’s story.
The Build
April 22, 2008 - The Australian Football League formally invited a group of Gold Coast business and community representatives to form a board to participate in a six month process to demonstrate an AFL licence for a new team based on the Gold Coast had all the foundations for long-term success. GC17 was born.
The process established the structural elements and framework that the Gold Coast group had to deliver before a licence was granted.
The GC17 Bid Team was led by Minter Ellison Gold Coast managing partner John Witheriff, ex-Brisbane Lions president Graeme Downie and Southport Football Club president Dr Alan Mackenzie, CEO of the Gold Coast City Council Dale Dickson and Gold Coast Bulletin Editor-in-Chief Bob Gordon.
June 2008 - It is revealed the Gold Coast Football Club (GCFC) will have a side compete in the Under 18 TAC Cup side in 2009, and then the VFL in 2010.
August 2008 - Gold Coast appoint Guy McKenna as coach.
March 31, 2009 - AFL CEO Andrew Demetriou grants a provisional license for the Gold Coast to have their own AFL team, commencing in 2011.
April 4, 2009 - Gold Coast play their first match in the TAC Cup, going down by 38 points to the Eastern Ranges.
April 12, 2009 - Gold Coast record their first win in the TAC Cup, defeating the Western Jets by 134 points.
May 15, 2009 - Highly respected Essendon administrator Travis Auld joins the Gold Coast as CEO.
July 29, 2009 - Brisbane Broncos fullback Karmichael Hunt stuns the sporting world by announcing he will be switching codes and plying his trade in the AFL with the Gold Coast Football Club, commencing in 2010.
September 13, 2009 - After winning their elimination final, Gold Coast bow out of the finals of the TAC Cup, going down to the Geelong Falcons by 41 points in the semi-final.
October 2009 - Coach Guy McKenna has his contract extended until the end of the 2012 season.
December 15, 2009 - Gold Coast select Daniel Harris, Michael Coad, Sam Iles and Danny Stanley in the AFL rookie draft to bolster their squad for the 2010 VFL season.
March 15, 2010 - Gold Coast Stadium, Carrara, will undergo a refurbishment and will be the home of the Gold Coast Football Club. It will be known as Metricon Stadium.
April 10, 2010 - Gold Coast makes its VFL debut, going down to Port Melbourne by 12 points.
April 2010 - Gold Coast reaches 5000 members for the first time.
May 15, 2010 - Gold Coast wins their first game of the VFL season (after a draw in Round 3), defeating Geelong by 28 points.
June 12, 2010 - Karmichael Hunt makes his VFL debut for Gold Coast against Coburg Tigers and kicks two goals.
July 22, 2010 - The GCFC reveals its nickname, team colours and team song ahead of its AFL debut in 2011. They will be known as the Gold Coast SUNS, wearing red, gold and blue.
August 17, 2010 - Nathan Bock (Adelaide Crows) is announced as a Gold Coast SUNS uncontracted player signing.
August 21, 2010 - Gold Coast play their final game in the VFL, and are defeated by Collingwood by 50 points at Victoria Park.
September 2010 - Sam Iles is named as the Gold Coast Club Champion in their VFL season.
September 1, 2010 - Nathan Krakouer (Port Adelaide) is another uncontracted player signing for the SUNS.
September 7, 2010 - Brisbane Lions Best & Fairest winner Michael Rischitelli joins the SUNS as an uncontracted player signing.
September 14, 2010 - Hawthorn premiership player Campbell Brown announces he will be joining the SUNS as an uncontracted player signing.
September 21, 2010 - Jarrod Harbrow (Western Bulldogs) reveals he will be heading home and joining the SUNS as an uncontracted player signing.
September 29, 2010 - After months of speculation, the SUNS reveal they have sealed the signature of the 2009 Brownlow Medallist and dual Geelong premiership player Gary Ablett to a five-year deal.
October 7, 2010 - Former Number 1 National Draft Selection Josh Fraser (Collingwood), and mercurial Brisbane Lions forward Jared Brennan join the SUNS via a three-way trade.
November 18, 2010 - Holding eight of the first 13 selections at the National Draft, the SUNS are able to select the cream of the young talent around Australia. They duly select David Swallow (Number 1), Harley Bennell (2), Sam Day (3), Josh Caddy (7), Dion Prestia (9), Daniel Gorringe (10), Tom Lynch (11) and Seb Tape (13). They also select Jeremy Taylor (39) and Jacob Gillbee (49).
December 7, 2010 - The SUNS select Nathan Ablett, younger brother of Gary Ablett, with the number one selection in the Pre Season Draft.
January 19, 2011 - The SUNS announce their leadership group for their debut season, with Gary Ablett named as captain. Nathan Bock is announced as vice-captain, with Campbell Brown deputy vice-captain.
April 2, 2011 - After a Round 1 bye, the wait was over for the SUNS as they make their AFL debut against Carlton at the Gabba in Brisbane. In front of 27,914 fans, the SUNS endure a difficult night, going down by 119 points. Charlie Dixon kicks the SUNS first ever goal in the AFL.
Inaugural Team
B: S. Tape, N. Bock, C. Brown
HB: N. Krakouer, K. Hunt, J. Harbrow
C: T. McKenzie, D. Harris, M. Rischitelli
HF: D. Stanley, C. Dixon, A. Magin
F: J. Brennan, Z. Smith, B. Matera
FOLL: J. Fraser, D. Swallow, G. Ablett
I/C: M. Lock, H. Bennell, D. Prestia, J. Toy (Sub)
EMG: M. Weller, D. Gorringe, M. Coad
Key Moments
First Win: April 23, 2011 - Despite trailing by 40 points in the third quarter, the Gold Coast SUNS record their maiden victory in the AFL, defeating Port Adelaide by three points at AAMI Stadium.
First QClash: May 7, 2011 - The inaugural QClash between the SUNS and the Brisbane Lions is an absolute thriller, with the SUNS holding on for an eight point victory to claim bragging rights. Former Lion Jared Brennan is awarded the Marcus Ashcroft Medal as best afield.
The SUNS play first AFL game on the Gold Coast: May 28, 2011 - The SUNS play their first match at their refurbished home ground, Metricon Stadium, against Geelong. They SUNS take it up to the Cats, leading at half time before running out of legs and going down by 66 points. The match is memorable for Karmichael Hunt's first goal in the AFL, a booming 60 metre effort on the run.
First AFL Game played in far North Queensland: July 16, 2011 - In the first match played for premiership points in far North Queensland, the Gold Coast Suns defeat Richmond by 15 points to record their third win of the season.
Inaugural Club Champion Named: September 9, 2011 - SUNS skipper Gary Ablett is unsurprisingly named as the clubs inaugural Club Champion. Nathan Bock finishes runner-up, with Michael Rischitelli in third place.
Gold Coast SUNS reach 10,000 members: February 28, 2012 – In just the club’s second year in the AFL, the SUNS broke through the 10,0000 member mark prior to the 2012 season.
Inaugural Ladies Lunch: July 2012 - The Gold Coast SUNS hosted their first ever Ladies Lunch to celebrate the Women of the SUNS (WOTS).
Gary Ablett wins Marcus Ashcroft Medal: July 21, 2012 – Gary Ablett wins the SUNS’ second Marcus Ashcroft Medal in the QClash at Metricon Stadium. He had 37 disposals and a goal in the loss.
First win at Metricon Stadium: August 11, 2012 - The SUNS celebrate their maiden victory at Metricon Stadium with a five goal win over new boys the GWS Giants.
First ever Homeless Sleep-out: June 1, 2013 - Over 250 Gold Coasters braved the cold weather on the first night of winter, as the Gold Coast SUNS held the inaugural Homeless Sleep-Out at Metricon Stadium in a bid to raise awareness and support for youth homelessness.
O’Meara claims NAB Rising Star: September 4, 2013 - Jaeger O'Meara capped off an outstanding debut season by winning the NAB AFL Rising Star Award from Adelaide's Brad Crouch, with Port Adelaide's Oliver Wines finishing third.
O'Meara polled 44 of a possible 45 votes to win by 13 votes from Crouch, with Wines finishing on 26 votes ahead of North Melbourne's Aaron Mullett and Sydney Swan Tom Mitchell who tied on 11 votes in equal fourth.
O'Meara was the strong favourite heading into the Rising Star announcement in Melbourne after a stellar debut season when he played all 22 of the Suns' games and averaged 21.6 disposals and kicked 16 goals.
Gary Ablett wins Brownlow Medal: September 23, 2013 - Ablett polled three votes for his dominant display against Greater Western Sydney in the final round to pip his close friend and former teammate Joel Selwood by one vote to win the 2013 Brownlow Medal.
Ablett became just the fifth man to win a Brownlow at his second AFL club. He joined Ian Stewart (St Kilda and Richmond), Peter Moore (Collingwood and Melbourne), Greg Williams (Sydney and Carlton) and Chris Judd (West Coast and Carlton) as footballers who have achieved the feat.
He is also the 14th multiple winner of the medal, which was first presented in 1924.
Ablett mounted his charge from Round 7, polling 16 of a possible 18 votes over the next six matches including being best afield against Melbourne, the Western Bulldogs, Hawthorn and North Melbourne. That took him to 20 votes, equalling the best tally from the first 12 matches in a Brownlow count.
Virgin Australia extend partnership: October 2, 2013 - The Gold Coast SUNS and Virgin Australia signed a new sponsorship deal extending their foundation agreement for an additional five years.
Fiat unveiled as GC SUNS co-major partner: October 25, 2013 - Fiat joined the SUNS as a co-major partner on a three-year deal which would see their logo displayed on the back of the SUNS jumper for home games and on the front for away games.
Metricon Stadium hosts Big Day Out: January 19, 2013 - Metricon Stadium hosted its first music festival with the 20th anniversary Big Day Out relocating to the stadium and surrounding Carrara precinct.
SUNS reach 10,000 members again: March 3, 2014 - The Gold Coast SUNS reached 10,000 Members prior to the 2014 season, the fifth consecutive year the club reached 10k members.
Gary Ablett wins second Marcus Ashcroft Medal: April 5, 2014 – Ablett was at his best at Metricon Stadium that night, kicking three goals and racking up 38 disposals to go with his 10 tackles for the match. The SUNS won the QClash by 53 points.
Rodney Eade appointed Senior Coach: October 30, 2014 - The Gold Coast SUNS unveiled Rodney Eade as its new senior coach. Before joining the SUNS Eade had coached 314 games for 162 wins. He led the Swans into a Grand Final in 1996 and the Western Bulldogs to three preliminary finals between 2008-2010. He coached these clubs into nine finals series in 14 seasons. He also played in four premierships with Hawthorn.
Huawei comes on board as official partner: April 2, 2015 - The Gold Coast SUNS and Huawei Australia announced a five-year sponsorship which saw Huawei become the club’s official technology and ball partner.
Gold Coast SUNS secure permanent training and administration base: April 12, 2015 - The Australian Government announced it will provide $15 million towards the construction of a permanent training and administration base for the Gold Coast SUNS in the Metricon Stadium precinct. The total cost of the project is estimated at $22 million. The AFL and the SUNS will jointly contribute $7 million. GC SUNS Chairman, John Witheriff, welcomed the funding announcement, “This announcement is the final piece of the puzzle in establishing the infrastructure required to secure an elite AFL team on the Gold Coast.”
Dixon wins Marcus Ashcroft Medal in QClash 9: May 2, 2015 – Charlie Dixon had a huge QClash in 2015, kicking a game-high six goals while also collecting 19 disposals. The SUNS won the match by 64 points.
Tom Lynch wins Marcus Ashcroft Medal in QClash 10: August 8, 2015 - It was a tight match at the Gabba in round 19, 2015, but a big game by Tom Lynch saw the SUNS get over the line, winning by 14 points. The tall forward kicked five goals from his 18 touches to win best on ground.
Fiat extend deal as co-major partner: September 11, 2015 – In 2015 Fiat joined the SUNS as co-major partner in an extended deal until the end of 2017. The deal saw the Fiat logo displayed on the front of the SUNS’ jerseys for all away matches as well as back-of-jumper rights for home matches.
Tom Lynch wins Club Champion: September 12, 2015 – Lynch took out the club’s major award, polling 131 votes to finish first in the Club Champion ahead of Kade Kolodjashnij (129) and Steven May (102). Lynch also claimed the Players' Player award for that season.
SUNS help celebrate 150 years of football in Queensland: March 22, 2016 - Representatives from all levels of Queensland football joined to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the first AFL football game played in Queensland. SUNS captain Gary Ablett joined Lions captain Tom Rockliff and AFL CEO Gillon McLachlan to launch the season.
Touk Miller wins Marcus Ashcroft Medal in QClash 12: July 9, 2016 - A 27-disposal effort combined with 11 tackles saw Touk Miller take out the Marcus Ashcroft Medal for best aground in QClash 12. The SUNS won the game by 26 points.
Tom Lynch receives first All-Australian selection: September 1, 2016 - Capping off a stellar year, Tom Lynch was rewarded for his fine form with a place in the All-Australian side. The spearhead played all 22 games where he kicked 66 goals to finish third in the Coleman medal race. Lynch also led the AFL in contested marks with 62 and finished fifth overall for marks with 153 for the season.
Lynch goes back-to-back with Club Champion: September 2, 2016 – Then vice-captain of the SUNS, Tom Lynch polled a total of 209 votes in the 2016 Club Champion, an impressive 80 votes clear of the nearest competitor. Jarrod Harbrow finished in second with 129 votes ahead of Jack Martin in third on 102.
Lynch and May appointed co-captains for 2017: December 8, 2016 – After sharing the co-captaincy duties for seven games when Gary Ablett was injured, SUNS coach Rodney Eade made the decision to appoint the two permanently in 2017.
SUNS unveil new Elite Training and Administration Base: February 9, 2017 - The club's administration and football staff moved into the new facilities which include a gym, change rooms, a three-lane pool, hot and cold baths and a medical room.
Gold Coast SUNS play for competition points in China: May 14, 2017 - the Gold Coast Suns and Port Adelaide played the first ever AFL match for premiership points in Shanghai, China, attracting a crowd of 10,114 at Jiangwan Stadium. Port Adelaide won the game by 72 points.
Gary Ablett plays 300th game: July 1, 2017 - Gary Ablett played his 300th AFL match against the Kangaroos in Round 15, 2017. Ablett had 37 disposals and the SUNS won by 19 points.
AFLW licence granted for 2020: September 27, 2017 - The Gold Coast SUNS successfully obtained an AFLW licence for the 2020 season. The successful bid for a women’s licence was announced following a meeting of the AFL Commission.
Stuart Dew announced as new Senior Coach: October 5, 2017 - Stuart Dew was revealed as the new Senior Coach on a three-year deal. Dew, a dual premiership player at the Port Adelaide and Hawthorn Football Clubs, had been a development and assistant coach at the Sydney Swans for the last eight seasons. As Senior Assistant Coach at the Swans, Dew worked closely with Sydney Senior Coach John Longmire, playing a leading role in the Swans' sustained period of success, which has saw them reach the finals in each of those years.
Cover-More announced as major partner: November 21, 2017 - Cover-More Travel Insurance joined the club on a new partnership deal to become the exclusive travel insurance partner of the GC SUNS for five years.
SUNS play JLT match in Townsville: March 4, 2018 - As part of a deal with Tourism and Events Queensland, the SUNS played a pre-season match in Townsville against the Geelong Cats.
SUNS host Round 1 in Cairns: March 24, 2018 - The SUNS played a home game up in Cairns for the 2018 season opener against North Melbourne as part of a deal with Tourism and Events Queensland.
Commonwealth Games held on the Gold Coast: April 2018 - The 2018 Commonwealth Games were held on the Gold Coast meaning the SUNS' home venue Metricon Stadium was unavailable. Both the opening and closing ceremonies were held at Metricon Stadium while the SUNS played two matches in Perth during the Games.
Touk Miller wins Marcus Ashcroft Medal in QClash15: April 22, 2018 - Touk Miller played an outstanding role in limiting Brisbane Lions midfielder Dayne Zorko to just 10 disposals while gaining 21 of his own to win best on ground.
Gold Coast plays second AFL game in China: May 19, 2018 - The Gold Coast SUNS returned to Shanghai to face Port Adelaide again in wet conditions at Jiangwan Stadium.
Gold Coast returns to Metricon Stadium: June 2, 2018 - The SUNS played their first home game of 2018 after playing the first nine rounds on the road due to the Commonwealth Games. A pre-match show featured Gold Coast musician Amy Shark, a traditional Indigenous performance and a "thank-you" parade for Commonwealth Games volunteers.
SUNS make Women's Winter Series debut: June 9, 2018 - The Gold Coast SUNS fielded their first-ever women's side since earning an AFLW license when they played GWS Giants North in Sydney.
Gold Coast record first ever win over Sydney Swans: July 21, 2018 - In what was arguably the upset of the season, the SUNS were able to snap an 11-game losing streak with their first win over the Swans and first win at the SCG. Gold Coast overcame a 29-point deficit in the first quarter to storm home for a 24-point win.
Harbrow takes out Club Champion and earns Life Membership: September 1, 2018 - At the 2018 Club Champion Award, SUNS defender Jarrod Harbrow cleaned up by taking out his first Club Champion, winning the Players' Player and Community awards and also being inducted as a life member of the Gold Coast SUNS, the first player to be given the honour.
Unveiling the Austworld Centre: November 26, 2018 - On a day in which the club welcomed Jack Lukosius, Izak Rankine, Ben King, Jez McLennan and Caleb Graham (draft class of 2018) to the Gold Coast, the club also unveiled local company Austworld as its inaugural naming rights partner of the club’s elite training and administration facility.
SUNS head to NZ for pre-season camp: December 14, 2018 - The entire Gold Coast playing list and coaching group flew to New Zealand for its first pre-season training camp under Stuart Dew. The camp consisted of a six-day program in Queenstown including team-building exercises, football sessions and education.
Gold Coast sign three inaugural AFLW players: February 8, 2019 – The Gold Coast SUNS began its AFLW list build by securing a talented trio of SUNS Academy stars for its 2020 AFLW campaign. Charlotte Hammans, Ellie Hampson and Kitara Whap-Farrar made history as the first three players to be signed by the SUNS.
Challenge Accepted Brand Launch: February 21, 2019 - The club unveiled a new direction and brand – Challenge Accepted – an attitude the entire club has adopted from the Board to the bench. “One community, one club, celebrating the game we love and the thrill of footy. We know it’s on us. That’s why we say Challenge Accepted.”
David Swallow and Jarrod Witts appointed co-captains: February 25, 2019 – After the pair signed contract extensions in the off-season, David Swallow and Jarrod Witts were announced as the club’s new co-captains for the 2019 season and beyond. The duo headlined a new-look leadership group which included vice-captains Touk Miller and Pearce Hanley, as well as Alex Sexton, Jarrod Harbrow, Brayden Fiorini and George Horlin-Smith.
SUNS play JLT Community Series match in Mackay: March 3, 2019 – The SUNS kicked off the 2019 season with a pre-season JLT Community Series match at Great Barrier Reef Arena in Mackay against the Western Bulldogs as part of the club’s partnership with Mackay Regional Council.
David Lake revealed as inaugural AFLW Senior Coach: March 5, 2019 – The Gold Coast SUNS announced David Lake as the club’s first AFLW coach, joining Head of Women’s Football Fiona McLarty in the women’s program.
Gold Coast play for premiership points in Townsville: June 15, 2019 – The Gold Coast SUNS hosted its first AFL Premiership match in Townsville, taking on St Kilda in Round 13 at Riverway Stadium.
Women’s QW Winter Series match played in Mackay: June 23, 2019 – Gold Coast’s Women’s QW Winter Series team played the Brisbane Lions at Great Barrier Reef Arena in Mackay. It was the first women’s match played at the venue as a result of the partnership between the SUNS and Mackay Regional Council.
SUNS lodge childcare project application: August 12, 2019 - The Gold Coast SUNS, in partnership with Kool Kids Training College, lodged a Development Application with the Gold Coast City Council to build a state-of-the-art childcare facility within the Metricon Stadium precinct.
Michael Rischitelli announces retirement: August 20, 2019 - Inaugural SUN Michael Rischitelli called time on his AFL career after 242 games. Rischitelli joined the Gold Coast SUNS ahead of the club’s inaugural season in 2011, going on to play 131 games during his nine seasons on the Coast.
Griffith University partnership announced: August 21, 2019 - One of Gold Coast’s most iconic institutions, Griffith University became the Official Research and Education partner of Gold Coast’s AFL and AFLW teams.
Jarrod Witts crowned Club Champion: August 31, 2019 - SUNS co-captain Jarrod Witts claimed his first ever Best & Fairest, taking out the top award at Gold Coast’s 2019 Club Champion. He polled 553 votes to win comfortably ahead of fellow skipper and runner-up David Swallow (417 votes) and third-placed Darcy Macpherson (368 votes).
Michael Rischitelli inducted as Life Member: August 31, 2019 - Michael Rischitelli’s efforts over his nine seasons were rewarded with life membership of the Gold Coast Football Club. Rischitelli became the second player to be bestowed Life Membership after Jarrod Harbrow.
Mike Emmett joins SUNS Board: September 4, 2019 - The Gold Coast SUNS appointed Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of AUB Group, Mike Emmett, to the SUNS Board of Directors.
NT Government and AFL partner with SUNS: October 16, 2019 - The Gold Coast SUNS announced a new partnership with both the Northern Territory Government and AFL Northern Territory that will see the club continue to grow the game throughout its new Academy zone. As part of the announcement, one AFL game would be played in Darwin until 2023.
Sumo join as first-ever AFLW co-major partner: October 21, 2019 - The Gold Coast SUNS announced Sumo as the first co-major partner of the SUNS AFLW team for two years.
SUNS select eight in inaugural AFLW draft: October 22, 2019 - The Gold Coast SUNS drafted eight players in its inaugural AFLW draft, taking Academy product Serene Watson with its first-ever pick.
ISC become new apparel partner: November 1, 2019 - The Gold Coast SUNS announced a new apparel partnership with ISC for two years, supplying the team’s playing and performance apparel as well as the club’s retail apparel range.
SUNS reveal first AFLW Indigenous clash guernsey: November 8, 2019 - The Gold Coast SUNS opted to utilise an Indigenous design for its inaugural AFLW clash guernsey to celebrate the club’s first year in the competition.
Inaugural AFLW coaching group announced: November 8, 2019 - The Gold Coast SUNS revealed its inaugural AFLW coaching group, with Andrew Swallow, Darryl White, John Taylor and Matt Bedford to join David Lake for the 2020 season. Kool Kids Training College was also announced as the inaugural AFLW Coaches’ Partner.
Harbour Town Premium Outlets sign on: November 14, 2019 – Harbour Town Premium Outlets signed on as an official partner of the AFLW program for the 2020 season.
SUNS take five in 2019 NAB AFL Draft: November 28, 2019 - The Gold Coast SUNS secured some of the best talent in the country, selecting top prospects Matthew Rowell (pick one), Noah Anderson (pick two) and Sam Flanders (pick 11) in the national draft.
Sam Virgo and Leah Kaslar appointed inaugural AFLW captains: January 30, 2020 – The SUNS announce Sam Virgo and Leah Kaslar as co-captains for the club’s debut AFLW season.
SUNS play first AFLW game: February 8, 2020 - The SUNS travel to take on GWS in Round 1 of the 2020 NAB AFLW Season. The SUNS have 10 debutants in torrential conditions and go down by one point to the Giants.
First win in first AFLW match at Metricon Stadium: February 15, 2020 – The SUNS defeat Richmond by 11 points in the club’s first AFLW victory, in front of home fans at Metricon Stadium. Jamie Stanton starred with 20 disposals and a goal.
Round 1 of the 2020 Toyota AFL Premiership Season kicks off before competition shutdown: March 21, 2020 – The SUNS AFL team kicks off its 2020 season with a home game against Port Adelaide without crowds due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Gold Coast SUNS Academy product Connor Budarick makes his AFL debut alongside top two picks Matt Rowell and Noah Anderson. At the conclusion of the round the entire competition is shut down due to the ongoing health crisis.
Club launches SUNS Community Crew: April 10, 2020 - In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Gold Coast SUNS launched the SUNS Community Crew to provide meals to senior (60 and over) and vulnerable club members, with support from club partner Street Food Co. The campaign saw SUNS employees, AFL/AFLW players and coaches deliver free ready-to-eat fresh meals to up to 1,500 eligible club members.
Kalinda Howarth named an AFLW All Australian: April 27, 2020 – Kalinda Howarth caps off a stellar debut season with selection in the 2020 Toyota AFL Women’s All Australian team. Howarth booted nine goals in seven games to finish equal-third in the league’s overall goalkicking. Howarth also earned a NAB AFLW Rising Star nomination in Round 3.
Jamie Stanton crowned inaugural AFLW Club Champion: May 5, 2020 – SUNS midfielder Jamie Stanton takes out the club’s first AFLW Club Champion award after also being nominated for the All Australian squad. Lauren Ahrens and Jade Pregelj finished joint runners-up in the award.
RizeUp announced as Official Charity Partner: June 10, 2020 – The SUNS announce an official partnership with Gold Coast organisation RizeUp to allow the club to drive awareness for domestic and family violence prevention within the community.
AFL competition resumes for Round 2: Saturday June 13, 2020 – After almost three months of competition shutdown due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Round 2 resumes with the SUNS taking on West Coast at Metricon Stadium. Responding after a loss to Port Adelaide in Round 1, the SUNS are dominant against the Eagles, recording a 44-point win. In just his second game of AFL football, Matt Rowell announces himself as a star of the future with 25 disposals and two goals, going on to claim the NAB AFL Rising Star nomination for Round 2 and also polling three Brownlow Medal votes.
Four young guns nominated for the NAB AFL Rising Star: July 21, 2020 – In Round 7 Noah Anderson becomes the fourth player in the 2020 season to be nominated for the NAB AFL Rising Star Award, following Matt Rowell (Round 2), Connor Budarick (Round 3) and Izak Rankine (Round 6).
SUNS play first match for premiership points in Darwin: August 21, 2020 – Through the club’s partnership with the NT Government, the GC SUNS host Carlton in a Sir Doug Nicholls primetime match at TIO Stadium in Darwin for the first time.
SUNS set new membership record: September 9, 2020 – The club sets a new record of 16,236 members in 2020 to break the record previously set in the club’s inaugural season.
Noah Anderson finishes second in NAB AFL Rising Star: September 24, 2020 – First-year midfielder Noah Anderson capped off a fantastic debut season with a second-place finish in the 2020 NAB AFL Rising Star award.
David Swallow, Bob East and Paul Scurrah inducted as life members: September 26, 2020 – SUNS captain David Swallow is recognised as the third player to earn the honour of life membership of the Gold Coast Football Club after playing his 150th game for the SUNS in Round 13, 2020. Inaugural board members Bob East and Paul Scurrah were also recognised with life membership for their 10 years of service to the club.
Sam Collins wins 2020 Club Champion: September 26, 2020 – Key defender Sam Collins claims his maiden Club Champion award after a prolific season in defence for the SUNS which saw him rank second in the league for intercept possessions. Touk Miller finished in second place followed by Jarrod Witts in third.
New Balance joins as official apparel partner: November 17, 2020 – The Gold Coast SUNS launch an innovative new partnership with global sportswear giant New Balance. The deal sees New Balance become the official on-field apparel partner for the next three years.
SUNS add to AFL list for 2021 - December 9, 2020 – The SUNS add four Academy players as pre-selections on the morning of the NAB AFL Draft; Alex Davies (Cairns), Joel Jeffrey (Darwin), Rhys Nicholls (Gold Coast) and Aiden Fyfe (Gold Coast). With pick 7 in the draft the SUNS select Elijah Hollands from Vic Country.
Plungie comes on board as Official Coaches Partner: April 3, 2021 – The SUNS announce Plungie as the club’s official coaches partner for the 2021 Toyota AFL Premiership Season.
Lauren Ahrens wins 2021 AFLW Club Champion: April 11, 2021 – Key defender Lauren Ahrens claims her maiden AFLW Club Champion award after a standout season which also saw her nominated for the All Australian squad. New recruit Alison Drennan finished second followed by first-year player Daisy D’Arcy in third.
Jeremy Sharp receives NAB AFL Rising Star nomination: July 19, 2021 – Second-year midfielder Jeremy Sharp receives the Round 18 NAB AFL Rising Star nomination after a breakout performance which included 30 disposals, 10 marks and 518 metres gained.
SUNS set new all-time membership record: August 4, 2021 – The SUNS continue to break new ground, eclipsing the previous year’s membership record to set a new total of 19,460 members.
Jarrod Harbrow announces his retirement: August 18, 2021 – Club legend Jarrod Harbrow announces his retirement from AFL football and is named to play his 262nd and final game in Round 23, 2021. He retires as the Gold Coast games record holder with 192 games in SUNS colours and was given the honour of having the Community Award named after him at the 2021 Club Champion.
Noah Anderson wins 2021 AFLCA Best Young Player Award: August 26, 2021 – Second-year midfielder Noah Anderson claims the AFL Coaches’ Association’s Best Young Player award, tied with Fremantle’s Caleb Serong.
Touk Miller earns his first Therabody All-Australian jacket: August 26, 2021 – After a record-breaking season, SUNS vice-captain Touk Miller was rewarded with his maiden Therabody All-Australian selection.
Alex Sexton recognised with life membership: September 6, 2021 – SUNS clubman Alex Sexton becomes the fourth player to be inducted as a life member of the Gold Coast Football Club after playing his 150th game for the SUNS in Round 19, 2021.
Touk Miller crowned 2021 SUNS Club Champion: September 6, 2021 – Touk Miller claims his first Club Champion award after polling in every match he played. Miller also took out the Players’ Player award for a record-equalling third time. Wil Powell finished in second while David Swallow rounded out the podium in third.
Soil turned on Kool Beanz SUNS facility: October 25, 2021 – Soil is turned for the first time on the planned new Kool Beanz SUNS development, located in the Gold Coast Sports & Leisure Centre precinct.
SUNS unveil inaugural AFLW Pride Guernsey – January 18, 2022 – The GC SUNS officially unveil its first AFLW Pride Guernsey, to be worn in the AFLW Pride Round QClash against the Brisbane Lions.
Ellie Hampson receives NAB AFLW Rising Star nomination – February 14, 2022 – A 16 disposal, six-clearance and one-goal performance in Round 6 earns Ellie Hampson a NAB AFLW Rising Star nomination
SUNS unveil new leadership group – February 21, 2022 – Led by captains Touk Miller and Jarrod Witts, the new-look SUNS leadership group features vice-captain Sam Collins, David Swallow, Sean Lemmens, Nick Holman and Noah Anderson.
Stuart Dew awarded AFL Life Membership – March 9, 2022 – After accruing over 300 games as a player and coach, Senior Coach Stuart Dew is presented with his AFL Life Membership at the 2022 AFL Season Launch.
Trio selected in AFLPA AFLW 22Under22 Team – March 29, 2022 – SUNS AFLW midfield trio Charlie Rowbottom, Claudia Whitfort and Ellie Hampson are all selected in the final Season Six 22Under22 Team.
Charlie Rowbottom named Best First Year Player – April 6, 2022 – Fresh off a stellar debut AFLW season, Charlie Rowbottom is voted by her peers as the AFLW Players’ Best First Year Player.
Alison Drennan earns inaugural AFLW Club Champion– April 9, 2022 – SUNS midfielder Alison Drennan takes out her first AFLW Club Champion, finishing ahead of runner-up Charlie Rowbottom by a single vote with Jamie Stanton finishing third.
Joel Jeffrey earns NAB AFL Rising Star nomination – May 23, 2022 – Territory product Joel Jeffrey puts on a show in just his sixth AFL game, kicking five goals against the Western Bulldogs in Ballarat.
SUNS add three at AFLW Draft – June 29, 2022 – Two SUNS Academy graduates are drafted to the club’s AFLW list with Mackay product Alana Gee taken at Pick 19 and Gold Coaster Jasmyn Smith selected at Pick 52. Tasmanian Claire Ransom is also drafted with Pick 34.
SUNS defeat Richmond after the siren – July 9, 2022 – In a game that will go down in SUNS history, Noah Anderson kicks a goal after the siren which sees the SUNS defeat Richmond by 2 points at Metricon Stadium. The SUNS had trailed by as many as 40 points in the third quarter.
David Swallow breaks SUNS Games Record – July 23, 2022 – Former captain and foundation player David Swallow becomes the first SUN to play 193 games for the club in Round 19, 2022, surpassing the record previously held by Jarrod Harbrow.
SUNS reach 20,000 members for the first time – August 8, 2022 – For the first time in history, the club surpassed 20,000 members, marking the third consecutive year in which the club has broken its previous membership record, eventually finishing 2022 with 21,422 members.
Tara Bohanna named AFLW captain – August 10, 2022 – Ahead of her second season for the SUNS, Tara Bohanna is appointed as the club’s new AFLW captain. Bess Keaney and Jamie Stanton are named joint vice-captains with Ellie Hampson rounding out a four-person leadership group.
Touk Miller earns second Therabody All-Australian selection & AFLCA Champion Player of the Year – August 24, 2022 – For the second straight season, Touk Miller is selected in the Therabody All-Australian squad. On the same day, he is named as AFLCA Champion Player of the Year, finishing as joint winner alongside Melbourne’s Clayton Oliver.
Touk Miller and Gary Ablett inducted as GC SUNS Life Members – August 25, 2022 – Two more players are awarded GC SUNS Life Membership at the 2022 Club Champion. Inaugural SUNS captain and Club Champion Ablett’s induction follows four Club Champion award, four All-Australian honour and a Brownlow Medal in 2013. Miller qualified for Life Membership after playing his 150th AFL match in Round 12, 2022, making him the sixth player to receive the honour.
Touk Miller wins second Club Champion – August 25, 2022 – captain Touk Miller wins a second consecutive AFL Club Champion, finishing ahead of runner-up Noah Anderson and third-place David Swallow.
SUNS play maiden VFL Finals match – August 28, 2022 – After finishing fifth on the VFL ladder, the SUNS earn the right to play and host its first VFL finals match, defeating Box Hill Hawks by 23 points at Metricon Stadium. The SUNS would go on to also defeat the Sydney Swans in a Semi-Final before bowing out in the Preliminary Final against the Southport Sharks.
Daisy D’Arcy earns NAB AFLW Rising Star nomination – September 5, 2022 – In her third season at the SUNS, Daisy D’Arcy’s stellar performance in Round 2 against the West Coast Eagles earns her a NAB AFLW Rising Star nomination.
Chris Burgess wins Jim ‘Frosty’ Miller Medal – September 12, 2022 – 52 goals in the VFL for Chris Burgess sees him earn the Jim ‘Frosty’ Miller Medal as the league’s leading goalkicker at the 2022 VFL Awards. Burgess and ruckman Ned Moyle are both named in the VFL Team of the Year.
Touk Miller finishes third in the 2022 Brownlow Medal – September 18, 2022 –After heading into the final round as joint leader with Lachie Neale, Touk Miller finishes a career-best third place with 27 votes in the 2022 Brownlow Medal, two votes behind winner Patrick Cripps.
Charlie Rowbottom named AFLW Club Champion – November 5, 2022 – In her second season of AFLW, Charlie Rowbottom wins the Season 7 Club Champion followed by runner-up Alison Drennan and third-place Claudia Whitfort.
SIXT join as new Co-Major Partner – November 17, 2022 – Global car rental company SIXT is announced as the club’s new Co-Major Partner for the next three years.
Ashanti Bush wins Goal of the Year – November 22, 2022 – A right-footed banana running towards the left pocket for just her second AFLW goal earns Ashanti Bush the AFLW Goal of the Year, awarded at the Season 7 Awards Night.
Thank You Tony – February 8, 2023 – Long-serving Chairman Tony Cochrane announces he is stepping down from his role after nine years of service on the SUNS board. Bob East becomes Chairman following the SUNS Round 1 fixture against the Sydney Swans.
Introducing Heritage Bank Stadium – February 22, 2023 – The SUNS home venue at Carrara is officially renamed Heritage Bank Stadium.
David Swallow 200 games – April 2, 2023 – Inaugural SUN David Swallow became the first player in SUNS history to reach 200 AFL games in the red and gold.
Bailey Humphrey named Round 9 Rising Star – May 15, 2023 – Moe product Bailey Humphrey’s 20 disposals, five marks and a goal in Round 9 against West Coast earned him a Rising Star nomination.
20,000 members for second consecutive season – June 26, 2023 – The SUNS reach 20,000 members for the second season in a row.
Mac Andrew named round 20 Rising Star – July 31, 2023 – Mac Andrew was given rising star honours after the Round 20 QClash win. In one of the best wins for the SUNS in their short history, Andrew was prominent with 14 disposals, seven marks and six intercept possessions.
SUNS record another membership record – August 17, 2023 – For a fourth consecutive year the SUNS eclipsed its membership record, finishing the year with 23,359 members on board.
Damien Hardwick announced as SUNS Senior Coach – August 20, 2023 – Three-time premiership winning coach Damien Hardwick is unveiled as the SUNS new Senior Coach at Heritage Bank Stadium
Noah Anderson wins maiden Club Champion – September 3, 2023 – After finishing as runner-up in 2022, Noah Anderson wins his first Club Champion award ahead of runner-up Sam Collins and third place Matt Rowell
SUNS host first AFLW final at Heritage Bank Stadium – November 11, 2023 – For the first time in club history, the SUNS hosted an AFLW Elimination Final against the Sydney Swans at Heritage Bank Stadium with more than 2,700 fans in attendance
SUNS add four Academy talents in NAB AFL Draft First Round – November 20, 2023 – SUNS Academy prospects Jed Walter (pick 3), Ethan Read (pick 9), Jake Rogers (pick 14) and Will Graham (pick 26) are drafted to the club with a quarter of first-round picks. It’s the first time four Gold Coasters have been drafted inside the first round of a NAB AFL Draft.
Claudia Whitfort wins maiden AFLW Club Champion – December 10, 2023 – Claudia Whitfort claims her first AFLW Club Champion award ahead of runner-up Charlie Rowbottom and third-place Daisy D’Arcy.
Introducing People First Stadium – March 8, 2024 – Following a successful merger between People's Choice Credit Union and Heritage Bank to form People First Bank, the SUNS home venue at Carrara is officially renamed People First Stadium.
