One thing that has really stood out about the Gold Coast SUNS 2016 pre-season campaign so far is the sheer training numbers on the paddock.
 
Upwards of 40 players have been completing drills at Metricon Stadium, something GC SUNS Head of Development, Matthew Lappin, has never seen in nearly a decade of coaching experience at the top level.
 
“In my seven years of coaching so far I don’t think I’ve been at a club that’s had that many on the track,” Lappin told SUNS TV on Thursday.
 
“We’ve had only two in rehab at times so fingers crossed, touch wood, all those things that we can maintain that and keep some fit bodies on the track because last year we were crucified by injuries.
 
“So it gives you a really good chance to set yourself up for a competitive season.”

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‘Skinny’ enters his second year as part of the coaching staff at Carrara with a positive outlook, revealing the club has come a long way since he started 12 months prior.
 
Improved player leadership and stronger resources in the football department are two areas Lappin believes will help the SUNS compete better both on and off the field for years to come.
 
“I think off-field the players have really grown their leadership,” he said.

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“Some of the guys that are coming into their sixth, seventh and eighth year are really stepping up and taking control of the club which has been really noticeable.
 
“And also I think the footy department’s really beefed up its numbers and we’re comparable to the rest of the competition now in terms of coaching staff and everything else.
 
“So I think we’re just 12 months away from getting our amenities right, the brand new facility, but when we get that we’ll be equal to every club in the competition.”