The Gold Coast SUNS will kick off the 2025 Toyota AFL Premiership season with a blockbuster Opening Round clash against Essendon at People First Stadium.
The Bombers will travel north to play the SUNS on Saturday, March 8 (4:15pm) as one of only four marquee matches in the AFL’s Opening Round.
It follows the resounding success of the 2024 Opening Round against Richmond which saw 22,086 fans pack out People First Stadium in the club’s first of four sellouts last season.
Gold Coast SUNS Chief Executive Mark Evans said the highly-anticipated matchup would launch the club’s season in style.
“It’s fantastic to host Essendon here on the Gold Coast for our first match of the 2025 season,” Evans said.
“We saw the tremendous boost northern states received from opening the season in Queensland and New South Wales, and we’re eager to build on that foundation again next season.
“Last season we had a sellout crowd for the corresponding fixture against Essendon at People First Stadium, and we expect another full house for this match.
“I encourage all of our members and fans to get in early to secure their membership seat to avoid missing out.”
AFL Chief Executive Andrew Dillon said AFL football continues to grow in popularity in the northern states.
“Footy is growing exponentially in New South Wales and Queensland - all four Clubs saw more than 10 per cent growth in membership this past season and we have seen community participation numbers grow a combined 17 per cent this year,” said Mr Dillon.
“Given this Opening Round weekend also falls on the Labour Day long weekend in Victoria, it presents a terrific opportunity for fans to travel north to support their club and enjoy an extended interstate break.”
Opening Round will see the SUNS as one of four clubs to host a match alongside the Brisbane Lions, Sydney Swans and GWS Giants.
2025 SUNS Memberships are available now, with tickets for Opening Round to also go on sale on Thursday, December 5.
OPENING ROUND
Gold Coast SUNS v Essendon
Saturday, March 8
People First Stadium
4:15pm local
