Mithen making strides up north

GEELONG product Lily Mithen says moving to the Gold Coast has reinvigorated both her football and lifestyle after nearly a decade with Melbourne.

After nine seasons with the Demons, Mithen joined the Suns at the end of the 2024 AFLW season and quickly established herself as a leader, earning a place in the club’s leadership group during her first year.

The former Newtown & Chilwell player enjoyed a strong first season in Queensland, averaging 15 disposals, 4.4 tackles, and three marks a game in the midfield.

“I’m just loving it up here on the Goldy,” she said. “It’s been so much fun having a change of scenery.”

“Moving from winter in Victoria to surfing all weekend long and enjoying 23 degree temperatures has been very enjoyable.

“Being out in nature and open space all the time is something I missed in Melbourne, so to now have the beach as my backyard is a game-changer.”

Mithen said the move had also brought a welcome change of pace.

“It’s great having the relaxed lifestyle and that slower pace,” she said.

 

“Life was pretty busy and fast in the Melbourne CBD, so it’s nice to be back in a space where you know everyone at your local coffee shop and can roam around as you like.”

On the field, Mithen said the Suns had welcomed her with open arms and given her the opportunity to help lead a talented young list.

“We’ve got many girls who have come through our Gold Coast Academy and are familiar with our systems,” she said.

“The majority of them played really well in our practice match against the Swans and are primed for a big year.”

After spending part of the off-season back home in Ceres and Geelong, Mithen said the Suns were well placed to challenge for a premiership.

“There’s no ceiling on what we can do this year,” she said. “We’ve improved our list and are now in our second season with [coach] Rhyce Shaw.

“Now, it’s just about building that connection and trust in the way we play, and we know we will have a red-hot crack at it.

“We will be hard to play against, that’s for sure.”