Sunday May 14, 2017 marks a significant milestone for the Gold Coast SUNS.

When the team arrives at Jiangwan Sports Centre to face Port Adelaide, it will not only be the first time a team has played for premiership points outside of Australian or New Zealand, it will be the first time Chinese AFL fans have laid eyes on live AFL in six years.

But the relationship the SUNS and their hometown of the Gold Coast have with the Chinese extends far beyond the round eight game.

Earlier this month children in Chengdu, Gold Coast’s sister city, had the opportunity to experience the indigenous Australian game through the Auskick program- the first ever for the city.

Gold Coast Chief Operating Officer, Paul Pamenter, said the club were thrilled to play a significant role in bringing the Auskick clinic to Chengdu.

“The relationship the Gold Coast has with Chengdu is a very important one, and something the SUNS are excited to be involved with in the lead up to our round 8 game against Port Adelaide”

“It’s still early days, but the Auskick clinic in Chengdu was a step in the right direction for making sure the region has access to our wonderful game.”

Thirty-four children between the ages of seven and 12 took part in the day, which also featured an ‘Aussie BBQ.’