They are nearly 1000 kilometres away from the Gold Coast, but these Suns feel right at home in Wollongong.
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The newly dubbed "South" Coast Suns arrived early Sunday morning and have wasted no time settling into the Illawarra, as they prepare for a two-week camp as part of sweeping changes brought into effect due to the COVID-19 crisis in Victoria.
The Suns have checked out North Dalton Park and the University of Wollongong, where they will train for the next fortnight. With their record standing at 3-2, they will play games against Melbourne and the Swans in Sydney, and two wins would put Gold Coast in the hunt for an elusive finals berth.
At an official welcoming ceremony at North Wollongong Beach on Monday morning, Suns chief executive officer Mark Evans said it had been a whirlwind few days for the club.
"You have to be prepared to adapt quickly, don't look too far ahead and make sure you take the best advice from health authorities, government, police and the AFL. You almost have to take it one week at a time - we say that in terms of on field, and now off field too," he said.
"We were given to go a number of places in Sydney or Wollongong, and we chose Wollongong. The facilities were a standout... and we know the benefits that come from living outside of the [city] CBD in terms of hospitality, how people treat you, the ease of getting around and the attitude that you get when you live by the sea.
"It feels very much like the Gold Coast and we're delighted to be here. Hopefully we can turn the Wollongong Suns into a power machine for the next two weeks and you can get some joy from us being here too."
Last week, the AFL declared that a hub would be set up in Sydney and surrounding areas for several clubs, and the Suns' move to Wollongong was made possible through work with Wollongong City Council.
Wollongong Lord Mayor Gordon Bradbery said the city had warmly embraced the Gold Coast club.
"I hope you have a great time in the Gong and enjoy the Illawarra," he said.
"We were so enthusiastic about the idea that Gold Coast Suns were coming our way. We made sure the path was smooth... we're close enough to Sydney and have the right training facilities. It all came together really quick but it was a great outcome. We have to support all codes, but this is a great boost for local AFL players. I think it will be something that has a ripple effect into the future."