Suns receive 2026 points allocation, cap space

THE Surf Coast Suns have been allocated 60 player points and $110,000 in its salary cap for its inaugural senior football season in the Bellarine Football Netball League.

President Jay Williams confirmed to this publication last week AFL Victoria had supported these figures for the 2026 season.

He said 60 player points was the lowest figure the club was hoping to get.

“We definitely could mount a case for more, considering we don’t have a playing list whatsoever.

“Sixty was a baseline application. First it came back at 55, and we fought hard to get it back up to 60.

“We are only going to have the ability to play three or four one-pointers if some of our Under 18s are up to senior footy.

“We feel like we will at least be able to compete [with this allocation].”

Williams believes the one-point penalty for players coming across from other BFL clubs will not apply to the Suns.

He added there was potential for two players of their choosing having their points reduced.

“This will help to compensate for not having a playing list.

“It’s pretty important for us to compete pretty early; no one wants to see a team getting smashed each week who can’t field quality players.”

Williams said the points and salary caps would change as the club evolves, with the Suns to come back to the pack when they are up to the level of competing with other clubs.

While the Suns may not necessarily want to reach the $110,000 capacity, Williams said the extra salary cap gave the club the option to do so.

“We are not saying we want to do that by any means, but it just means we can if we need too.

“We will need some experience on our list; it’ll help to have that balance with the young guys as well.”