Although it wasn’t the final result he was hoping for, Dean Solomon believes he will be better for the experience after coaching the Gold Coast SUNS in their NAB Challenge match against Brisbane on Sunday. 

For the first time in his football career, Solomon was in the drivers seat, taking charge of training sessions and team meetings in the lead-up to the match, as well as delivering the pre-match address. 

But with the side down by 31 points at the first interchange, and key personnel rested, Solomon knew he was in for a tough afternoon. 

Regardless, the 2000 premiership player says he is better for the experience. 

“At quarter time it wasn’t much fun, but it was a good experience to develop yourself as a senior coach,” he said.

“I learned a lot of things that I can use to development myself.”

Solomon wasn’t the only Gold Coast coach to gain valuable game-day experience in Townsville.

Sitting in the back row of the coaches box Guy McKenna was able assess the club’s usual match-day practises, evaluating the coaching operations. 

 “It was good to get a hand on the other coaches and decipher the messages that were being sent,” McKenna said

The Gold Coast mentor praised his defensive advisor on his debut performance, given the GC SUNS undermanned side.  

“Obviously when things aren’t going good the heat goes on you, but he handled himself as good as you can.”