Chris Burgess’ journey to an AFL list is a remarkable one, but now the 22-year-old has his eyes on taking the next step.

Burgess impressed during the 2018 season at his SANFL club West Adelaide, kicking 18 goals in as many games to put himself on AFL clubs’ radars.

He’s just over a week into his first ever AFL pre-season at the SUNS, and says he’s enjoyed his time so far under new coach Stuart Dew.

“I’ve had a little bit of a rise and obviously Stuey Dew’s a great coach and I really enjoy the view that he has for the club and where he wants the boys to get to,” Burgess told SUNS TV.

“Hopefully that helps me develop a lot more.” 

Coming from the SANFL program, Burgess says he’s been surprised by the big step-up to AFL standard.

“I’ve found pre-season pretty hard,” he said.

“Obviously it’s a lot different to what I’m used to but I’m slowly getting into it and learning all the names and the boys have been really good. 

“You’ve got a little bit of nerves coming into a new club and meeting a lot of new boys but you get used to it and the boys have been really good." 

It’s been a big few weeks for Burgess, who has now relocated to the Gold Coast and moved in with new teammate Callum Ah Chee.

If the Gold Coast utility can expand his fitness base throughout the rest of pre-season and impress with his naturally athletic marking ability, he will make a strong case for a senior debut in 2019.