The Suns started their rebuild when half their roster were just kids

In 2025, the Gold Coast Suns kicked off a new rebuild phase in the AFLW, despite being at the bottom of the ladder and facing a daunting task. The club's new head coach, Rhyce Shaw, had a clear vision and a specific plan in place. The Suns were conceding an alarming number of points and goals, which was by design to facilitate the integration of young talent through the draft.

The shift in game plan was implemented even before these rookies arrived, with the primary goal of improving their overall attack and scoring ability.

This strategy led to some poor results, but Shaw believed it was necessary for the long-term success of the team. The Suns' game style changed from contested and stoppage-heavy to a more controlled, kick-mark approach. This change was crucial for developing players like Sunny Lappin, Mikayla Nurse, Ava Usher, and Dekota Baron, who would later become key contributors.

Throughout their rebuild, the Suns faced growing pains, including giving up high numbers of points, inside 50s, marks, and shots on goal. However, these losses were a necessary sacrifice for the greater good of a more productive and attacking football style. The Suns' average score dropped from 28.3 in 2024 to 26.6 in 2025, but they managed to score 30 points or more in five games, a significant improvement from the previous year's three.

The Suns' commitment to this attacking style bore fruit, as they ended the season with the highest average score in their history. With a strong defense and the addition of key players like Daisy D Arcy and Georja Davies, the Suns are well-positioned to continue their upward trajectory and aim for a finals spot.