Gold Coast Suns Lock In Leadership Core for 2026 Campaign
The Gold Coast Suns are backing the leadership group that steered them to their historic first AFL finals appearance last season, announcing a familiar faces at the helm for the upcoming 2026 campaign. Star midfielder Noah Anderson will once again don the captain’s armband, with veteran Touk Miller and steadfast defender Sam Collins retaining their crucial vice-captaincy roles.
Joining this core leadership trio in an expanded group are Brownlow Medallist Matt Rowell, key forward Ben King, and emerging talent Wil Powell. This continuity in leadership is seen as a vital ingredient for the Suns as they aim to build on their recent success and continue their upward trajectory in the competitive AFL landscape.
Anderson expressed his deep honour and gratitude at being reappointed as captain. “I’m extremely honoured to be named captain again,” he stated. “I’m lucky to be able to lead an amazing group of players. It feels like we’re on a journey together and we’re heading in the right direction.”
He further elaborated on the strength of leadership within the club, highlighting that it extends beyond the officially appointed individuals. “What has really stood out to me is the number of leaders we have right across the group, not just the boys who have been appointed in the leadership group,” Anderson observed. “It’s a fantastic opportunity for myself, Touk, Sam, Ben, Matt and Wil, but it’s also the fact we have so many players stepping up, setting standards and showing their leadership qualities in our group that is helping us build something really special here.”
The Suns’ maiden finals berth in the previous season was a significant milestone for the club. Their campaign included a nail-biting one-point victory over Fremantle, before their journey was ultimately curtailed by eventual premiers Brisbane, who secured a 53-point win at the Gabba.
Craig Cameron, the Suns’ Football Manager, emphasised the club’s confidence in its leadership structure. “What we do have at our club is a great number of experienced players and emerging leaders who will also play key roles in seeing our football club continue to take steps forward in 2026,” Cameron commented. “We’re thrilled for Noah to be captaining our club for a second season, supported by Touk and Sam as vice-captains, and Matt, Ben and Wil in the wider leadership group.”
However, the Suns will need to navigate the early stages of their 2026 season without the presence of Matt Rowell. The dynamic midfielder suffered a broken finger during his participation for Victoria in the recent “State of Origin” clash against Western Australia at Optus Stadium. Despite this setback, his inclusion in the leadership group underscores his importance to the team’s long-term vision.
The team is set to engage in a match-simulation contest against St Kilda this Thursday evening at People First Stadium, providing an early opportunity for the squad to gel and test their strategies ahead of the official season commencement. This match will be a crucial hit-out for the Suns as they look to fine-tune their preparations and build momentum for the challenges that lie ahead. The continued trust in their established leadership core signals a clear intent from the Gold Coast Suns to build upon their recent successes and cement their position as a force in the AFL.
