Just over 2,700 students representing 160 teams from all over Queensland contested the third annual Gold Coast SUNS Cup competition, with St. Augustine’s college from Cairns, Helensvale Primary School and Marymount College emerging victorious following the finals held at Metricon Stadium. 

The state-wide schools competition saw teams compete for the prestigious age group trophies and the chance to play on the home grounds of the Gold Coast SUNS with three separate categories across Years 8 & 9 boys and girls. 

Fan favourites Karmichael Hunt, Nathan Bock and Dion Prestia were among the Gold Coast SUNS stars in attendance, meeting with the finalists from each category prior to the respective deciders before presenting the winning schools with a signed Guernsey, the Cup perpetual trophy and a premier medallions to each player.

AFL Queensland Regional Manager – Richie Lyons, told goldcoastfc.com.au the GC SUNS Cup had once again been a major off-field success, with many of the participant teams originating from the Club’s North Queensland catchment zones. 

“It was well-received from everyone involved, and to have had teams from Cairns, Rockhampton, Townsville and Mackay play on this fantastic venue was a fantastic success,” he said.

Lyons said the overall highlight for the students had been the opportunity to play in the same AFL venue as their sporting heroes.

“As soon as the kids walked in they immediately took in the experience,” Lyons said.

“To play on the same surface they watch their favourite GC SUNS players battle it out every week was a definite highlight for them.”