The SUNS VFL squad are “fit, firing and ready to go” ahead of their season opener in Melbourne this Saturday, facing the Casey Demons.
Despite a delayed start to the season, captain James Tsitas is confident the SUNS are as ready as ever.
“Having a really good training session last week and a match simulation against the AFL has prepped us,” Tsitas said.
“I think our best opposition that we'll play this year is the AFL side.That’s the best preparation we're going to have.
“I think the boys are in a good place. We're fit and firing and ready to go. So, really looking forward to the opportunity against Casey on Saturday.”
Tsitas will be wisely leading the VFL side this year, as he embraces a dual role in coaching and captaincy.
“Stepping into the club in a coaching capacity as well, I'm really looking forward to helping the boys develop,” Tsitas added.
“Now that I'm not on the AFL list, it's less about myself and it's more about the other boys.
“I have a better understanding of the SUNS system and less focus on what I can do out on the field, and more on how everyone else is playing.”
After leading the SUNS VFL to a premiership in 2023, Tsitas has his sights set on fostering the next generation of SUNS AFL players this season.
“Knowing what we as a club want from each player and what's required, I can help each player get to work with that.
“All the VFL development boys, all the Academy boys and all the young boys here - I want them to have a really good crack.
“[I’ll be] making sure we play the SUNS system, consistent with the AFL side. So, helping each other connect and playing the way we want to play so we can get up to speed as quickly as we can and have a good year.
The SUNS take on the Casey Demons at 9:05am AEST this Saturday, March 29. Catch all the action on the official AFL Live App and VFL website.
