he Gold Coast SUNS have officially appointed Noah Anderson as captain ahead of the 2025 Toyota AFL Premiership Season, marking a new chapter in the club’s history.
The 23-year-old midfielder was chosen to lead the team following an extensive selection process to determine the club’s leadership structure. Anderson’s appointment signifies his growing influence within the club and his ability to inspire teammates as they strive for success.
Anderson will be supported by vice-captains Touk Miller and Sam Collins, with Ben King, Matt Rowell, and Wil Powell rounding out the six-man leadership group.
A Proud Moment for Anderson
Anderson expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to lead the SUNS, acknowledging the club’s investment in him both as a player and a person.
“I’m incredibly proud to be named captain of the Gold Coast SUNS,” Anderson said. “This club means everything to me, and I love coming in every day to work alongside this group of players. I’m committed to giving everything I have to help lead this team and bring success to the Gold Coast.”
Transition in Leadership
The captaincy change follows the decision by former skipper Jarrod Witts to step down from leadership responsibilities. Witts, the club’s longest-serving captain, will continue to play an important role within the playing group. Meanwhile, Miller, who served as co-captain alongside Witts since 2022, will remain a vital figure in the leadership team as vice-captain.
Anderson acknowledged the impact that both Witts and Miller have had on his journey at the SUNS.
“I want to thank Jarrod and Touk for everything they have given this club as leaders. Their contribution can never be overstated, and they have been incredible mentors for me as a player, person, and now as a leader,” Anderson said.
“The people who showed me what it means to be a part of this club—Jarrod, Touk, and David Swallow—have set an incredible standard. I’m driven every day to bring success to this club for them, our members, and our fans.”
Club’s Endorsement and Future Direction
Gold Coast SUNS General Manager of Football Performance, Wayne Campbell, congratulated Anderson on his new role and recognized the contributions of Witts and Miller.
“We are thrilled for Noah and know he is ready for the responsibility of leading this club,” Campbell said. “Our club has a strong depth of leadership, and we are confident that Noah will be well supported by Touk and Sam as vice-captains.”
Campbell also praised the elevation of King, Rowell, and Powell into the leadership group.
“Ben, Matt, and Wil have worked hard to develop their leadership skills over recent years, and it’s great to see them formally recognized with the opportunity to play a key role within the team.”
He also highlighted the lasting contributions of Witts and Miller to the club’s leadership.
“Jarrod has been a crucial figure in guiding this club through some challenging periods, and his legacy as our longest-serving captain is significant. Touk has also been a key leader over the past three years, and we know he will continue to provide vital experience and support to Noah as vice-captain.”
A Bold New Era for the SUNS
With his appointment, Anderson becomes the youngest current captain in the AFL, a testament to the SUNS’ forward-thinking approach and willingness to push boundaries.
The SUNS are just under two weeks away from their pre-season matches, with a match simulation against the Brisbane Lions and Collingwood scheduled at People First Stadium on Thursday, February 20. As Anderson takes the helm, the Gold Coast SUNS are looking ahead to a promising and exciting 2025 season.
Gold Coast SUNS Captaincy History:
Gary Ablett (2011-2016)
Tom Lynch & Steven May (2017-2018)
David Swallow & Jarrod Witts (2019-2021)
Jarrod Witts & Touk Miller (2022-2024)
Noah Anderson (2025)
Most games as SUNS Captain:
102 – Jarrod Witts
96 – Gary Ablett
60 – David Swallow
54 – Touk Miller
38 – Steven May
37 – Tom Lynch
