Gary Ablett will continue as captain of the Gold Coast SUNS in 2013.

The board of the GC SUNS endorsed the football department’s proposal to continue with Ablett as skipper. He will be once again supported by vice-captain Nathan Bock and deputy-vice-captain Michael Rischitelli.

GC SUNS General Manager Football Operations, Marcus Ashcroft confirmed the appointments.

"Gary, Nathan and Michael have formed the core of our leadership structure over the past two seasons, and will continue to play that role in 2013."

Ashcroft also confirmed the GC SUNS in partnership with leadership consultancy Bluestone Edge would extend its leadership program in 2013.

"Our initial leadership groups have set the framework for our club and that included identifying what the players wanted to stand for, their values and expectations."

"As the majority of our players transition into their third season, and now understand what it takes to play and prepare at the highest level, we have challenged them to take the next step on the leadership front."

In 2013, the program will see players working with coaching and football staff to improve and develop their leadership skills, with the view that in the years to come the club will have a large number of capable leaders.

"The leadership program will involve all players at different levels with an objective to develop a number of leaders and individual leadership capacity for the future," Ashcroft said.

GC SUNS Player Development Manager, Simon Fletcher, a former facilitator with Leading Teams will work closely with GC SUNS coaches Shaun Hart and Ben Mathews in delivering the program to the players in consultation with Bluestone Edge.