On the eve of the 2024 AFL season opener, competition is fierce among the GCSU forward 50.

At Brighton Homes Arena on Thursday night, Gold Coast will play a match simulation against the Brisbane Lions as part of their preseason preparations.

The competition in front of goal is fiercer than ever, according to seasoned small forward Nick Holman, who spoke on Wednesday morning.

Aside from Round 1, it is almost the best time of year, according to Holman.

“I will play the first three quarters, and my role will be a small forward, putting a lot of pressure on, just like it has been throughout preseason.”

Renowned for his work rate and manic pressure, Holman cemented his spot in the SUNS best 22 in recent seasons. The 28-year-old says that with new senior coach Damien Hardwick, each player has had a new opportunity to present their case.

“Everyone has to make an impression, and it seems like a blank slate. That’s really shown on the track; we’ve been putting lots of pressure on one another and keeping expectations high,” Holman added.

“Dimma mentioned the significance of that small forward role during our initial meeting.”

Competition is fierce right now… Darcy Macpherson has been a very promising player this preseason; other notable players are Mally Rosas, James Tsitas, and Tom Berry.

“There are a lot of guys in that area, which helps me keep performing and puts a bit of pressure on.”

This rivalry also encompasses the taller brigade of the SUNS. Ben King is on track to play the Tigers in the first round, and Academy product Jed Walter has learned a lot from seasoned coaches Sam Day and Levi Casboult.

“Finding the right mix is all part of this time of year, and there are a lot of guys in that area too,” Holman said.

“He is had some difficulties, but it is wonderful to see him back to his best, diving for balls and competing.

“Having Kingy back is wonderful, and Sammy Day is going great too. it’ll be hot for spots up there.”

Holman has also backed the SUNS to take a big step forward in 2024, saying the side aren’t shying away from their lofty ambitions.

“That’s the maturity of the group, we don’t want to have a ceiling, we want to play finals, win finals and play in grand finals. There’s no point shying away from that; that’s a challenge we’re up for and I think we have the group to do it.”