The 2025 season brings a wave of change for Bond University’s AFL program. With significant player turnover across both squads, the preseason has been an opportunity for new and returning players to step up and make their mark. Many experienced players have either retired or been promoted to higher levels of competition, opening the door for fresh talent to shine.
The coaching structure has also seen a shake-up. The men’s program welcomes a new senior coach in Nick Scott, while the women’s team has added two new assistant coaches, Nathan Thomas and Ben Holman—both former Bull Sharks players who recently retired. Their deep connection to the club will be invaluable. The women’s program has also introduced new fitness coach Tahi Rahana and reserves coach Tara Dutton.
Director of AFL Andy Lovel breaks down the season ahead and introduces some new faces to the program.
Season Focus
"While both squads boast a high level of talent, they remain relatively young and inexperienced. Developing game knowledge and strengthening player connections will be key.
"We’re building our game plans with a lot of new faces, so creating synergy on the field is crucial. We’ve ramped up conditioning significantly, with a focus on game-specific running. The players are in great shape, and we’ve also adjusted our defensive strategy to be more aggressive."
Competition Outlook
The overall standard of competition continues to rise, with more talented players emerging from Gold Coast junior programs and experienced recruits arriving from AFL heartlands like Melbourne and Adelaide.
In the men’s competition, reigning premiers Coolangatta have recruited heavily from country Victoria, making them strong contenders again. Carrara has also strengthened by bringing in players from Division 1 club Beenleigh, while Burleigh, last year’s grand finalists, remain a powerhouse due to their strong junior development.
For the women, Southport and Aspley have continued their nationwide recruiting efforts, bringing in high-calibre players. The introduction of a salary cap and new player points system will add another layer of complexity, ensuring a more balanced competition. Meanwhile, Morningside and Redland Bay enter the league as new teams, adding intrigue to the season.
Players to Watch
Several Bull Sharks players have had standout preseasons and are poised to make an impact.
Women:
- Bella Iverach – A 2023 premiership player, she has elevated her fitness to a new level.
- Andi Heard and Tobi Chapman – Both have delivered outstanding preseasons.
- Ella Calleja – One of the most talented players on the team, in peak condition.
- Shannon Nolan - Last season’s Best and Fairest winner, expected to continue her dominance.
"In terms of leadership, new captain Grace Moodie will have a significant influence on team culture. She’s incredibly experienced, calm under pressure, and has great knowledge of both footy and life. She’ll be a key leader for the team."
Men:
- Miles Enders, Tommy Bennett and Finlay Gray – These three lads are new students to Bond University and I’m predicting they will have an impact on the competition.
- Dan Middleton – A vital figure in shaping the team’s culture.
Biggest Challenges and how to overcome them
"With so many new players, building cohesion quickly will be the biggest challenge.
"As a university-based club, we deal with a lot of transition, so integrating new players and fast-tracking their experience is tough. But we’ve done a great job educating them on our game plan during preseason. It’ll take time, but I’m confident we’ll be competitive in both men’s and women’s competitions."
QAFLW
Key Ins
Charlotte Adamson – Riewoldt Family AFL Excellence Scholarship
Kendra Blattman – Sydney University
Sienna Merry – Sydney
Brianna Moyes – Fremantle Dockers
Key Outs
Havannah Harris – AFLW
Tara Harrington – AFLW
Mia Salisbury - AFLW
Nyali Milne – AFLW
Heidi Talbot – AFLW
Paris Lightfoot – Melbourne
Courtney Sexton – Tasmania
Ariana Clarke – Melbourne
Tahlia Meyer – retired
CJ Landwehr – retired
QFA
Key Ins
Miles Enders – Melbourne
Tommy Bennett – Tasmania
Finlay Gray – Riewoldt Family AFL Excellence Scholarship.
Key Outs
Liam Viney – QAFL
Jack Tilley – QAFL
Matt Smith – retired
Tom Ferguson – Melbourne
Ollie Burrows-Cheng – retired
Final Thoughts
"There’s a real sense of excitement and anticipation. Externally, expectations might be low because of all the changes, but internally, our standards are high. There’s no limit to where we can go, and that’s our mindset heading into the season.
With a strong mix of youthful talent, experienced coaching, and a commitment to growth, the Bull Sharks are set for an exciting and competitive 2025 campaign."