The Rise of Surf Coast Suns
AFL Barwon has today released The Rise of the Surf Coast Suns, a short-form documentary capturing the journey behind the region’s first new senior football and netball club in more than four decades.
Produced with the support of AFL Victoria, the documentary explores how the Surf Coast Suns progressed from concept to competition while navigating community debate, resistance and the complexities that come with establishing a new club in one of Victoria’s fastest-growing regions.
Through interviews with key figures involved in the club’s formation, The Rise of the Surf Coast Suns provides an authentic and compelling insight into the determination, resilience and belief that ultimately led to the club’s acceptance into the Bellarine Football Netball League.
The film was screened for the first time at last night’s Surf Coast Suns club dinner. The Suns Netball and Football Presidents, Claire Sadler and Jay Williams, said the documentary captures the heart of the club’s journey and the collective effort that helped bring the senior program to life.
“The Surf Coast Suns story is one built on community, passion and progression. This documentary captures far more than football and netball, it highlights the journey of a club that has grown from a strong junior foundation into a thriving senior program, driven by the commitment of so many people both on and off the field.
“To see the pathway from juniors through to seniors showcased in this way is something our entire club can be incredibly proud of. It reflects years of hard work from our players, coaches, families, volunteers, committee members and supporters who continue to shape the culture and future of the Surf Coast Suns.
“The film also shines a light on the importance of creating opportunities for young people to stay connected to their local community through sport, while building an environment where players can develop, belong and represent the Surf Coast Suns with pride.
“We appreciate the opportunity to be involved alongside AFL Barwon in telling this story and look forward to the official release of the documentary.”
Head of AFL Victoria Greg Madigan attended last night’s screening. He said the club’s story would leave a lasting impact on the broader football community.
“The journey of the Surf Coast Suns Football Netball Club is a remarkable story of vision, resilience and community spirit. To see the club take the field in 2026 as the first new senior club to enter the league in 41 years is a significant milestone, not only for the Surf Coast Suns, but for football and netball across the broader Barwon region.
“Congratulations to President Jay Williams, Netball President Claire Sadler and the incredible team of volunteers whose hard work and belief have turned this ambition into a reality. Their efforts have already generated enormous excitement and engagement throughout the community.
“AFL Barwon is also to be commended for the collaborative work undertaken alongside the club to help guide and support this historic outcome.
“We wish Senior Coach Trent Rogers, and everyone involved with the Surf Coast Suns the very best for the inaugural season and for many successful years to come.”
AFL Barwon CEO Kate Patterson acknowledged the collaborative effort behind bringing the project to life.
“Huge thanks to AFL Victoria and their partners for giving us the opportunity to tell the story of the Suns and their historic entry into the BFNL.
“We’re also very grateful to Jay, Claire and the incredible community they’ve built at the Suns, for allowing AFL Barwon to help share their story through this documentary. It’s been so exciting to see it all come together, even more so with both their footy and netball sides already notching up their first wins early in the season!
“I would also like to acknowledge Lance Fidler for his outstanding work in producing the documentary. He’s done such a beautiful job in capturing the spirit of the Suns.”
