We are thrilled to announce that Gary will continue as the head coach of the Northern Beaches Suns AFL Club for the upcoming season. With his extensive experience and unwavering commitment to developing our players and fostering a positive club culture, we are excited to have Gary steering the ship toward a successful 2025 season.
Gary brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to our team, drawing from his 20 years of playing experience and his proven track record as a coach. Having made significant strides in the development of our men’s team at the end of the 2024 season, we look forward to Gary’s leadership in strengthening our club’s foundation and guiding us to new heights. His dedication to club community culture and his belief that “we get out what we put in” perfectly align with the values of the Northern Beaches Suns.
Gary’s Bio:
Gary played footy for 20 years, and has only recently retired due to injury and has since started coaching. His playing time extended from the Murray league in VIC/NSW, up to Townsville in 2010.
Gary returned to Townsville in 2014 where he played for Curra Swans before taking on the Head Senior Coaching role in 2019. Gary was a key contributor to changing the landscape of footy at Curra which saw them compete to the Preliminary Final in 2019.
He was awarded the 2019 Townsville AFL Coach of the Year for recognition of his development of the Senior Men’s team and contribution to club and culture growth of uniting the men’s and women’s playing groups. Gary is a strong believer in Club Community Culture, and that as a group “we get out what we put in”.
Gary came to Northern Beaches Suns is 2021 as an assistant coach before moving away for two years. He has assisted the Men’s playing group at the back end of the 2024 season where the team have shown some promising statistics. Gary has also provided mentoring to aspiring coaches.
With the new addition of field lights, the club can be more flexible with training options year-round. Such flexibility will also contribute to club growth from juniors up to senior ranks. Gary recognises individual strengths and weaknesses and builds on this to lead individual growth and foster team integration. Gary’s passion and knowledge of the game will grow a strong team culture within the club and will contribute to strengthening the club’s foundation. Gary doesn’t do anything by halves, and he loves a challenge. He envisions The Suns confronting the Townsville AFL league with skill, tenacity and endurance in the 2025 season.