Experienced hardman Campbell Brown believes gaining match-fitness through the AFL NAB Cup will be crucial for the Gold Coast SUNS, with the veteran defender confident the squad can develop a winning culture leading into the 2013 AFL Season.

With most AFL Clubs looking to manage their playing groups throughout the pre-season competition, the GC SUNS have openly expressed their intention of fielding the most competitive side available.

After a strong finish to the 2012 AFL Season with impressive wins over the GWS Giants and AFL powerhouse Carlton, Brown says it’s important for the player’s confidence to notch up a few wins through the NAB Cup competition.

“After the start we had last season, it’s definitely important for us to try and gain as much momentum as possible early in the season,” said Brown.

“We’re going to be approaching every NAB Cup match with a quality side with the aim of capturing some strong form and taking it into the this season.”

GC SUNS senior coach Guy McKenna is quietly confident the playing group can secure a few early season wins, with the GC SUNS set to play against the Brisbane Lions, Hawthorn, North Melbourne and reigning premiers Sydney Swans through the NAB Cup competition.

“Teams like Hawthorn and Sydney will be managing their player’s minutes before Round 1… but we’re not in a position to do the same,” said McKenna.

“For us, the NAB Cup will be about building the confidence and belief amongst the playing group, and to do that you need your best cattle out there.”

While a players are still battling off-season injuries, Bluey (McKenna) said GC SUNS fans could expect to see most of the squad on the field before the start of the AFL Season.  

“There might be a couple of players like (Tom) Lynch, (Michael) Rischitelli and (Nathan) Bock that miss out on Round 1, but they certainly won’t be too far off.”