The Gold Coast SUNS’ first real hitout of 2017 is just over four weeks away and for most of last year’s draft crop, it represents the first opportunity to pull on the red and gold guernsey in a competitive AFL-standard game.

No. 4 pick Ben Ainsworth can’t wait to lace up the boots for the first time as a SUN and sees the upcoming JLT Community Series as a chance to push for a round one berth.

“It is exciting. It’s a good chance for everyone to prove themselves a little bit further,” Ainsworth told SUNS TV.

“We’ve been doing some match simulations at training, trying to put our best foot forward towards getting selection in round one and through the JLT.”

WATCH: 2016 Pre-Season, Match Sim

Since returning from the Christmas break, the intensity at training has intensified significantly with players knowing they need to impress on the track if they’re to be selected by Rodney Eade and his match committee.

“It’s definitely ramped up. A lot of players are becoming more competitive and we’re heading in the right direction, that’s for sure,” he said.

“It’s pretty competitive for spots and everyone’s just pushing their cause to get a round one selection.”