Sunshine Beach State High School (SHS) has officially become the 12th endorsed AFL Queensland School of Excellence.
The announcement was made with an exciting twist—the AFLW Premiership Cup was present for the occasion, as part of its national tour ahead of the 2024 NAB AFLW Grand Final.
The prestigious cup, a symbol of women’s football excellence, was showcased as a reminder of the potential future stars that could emerge from Sunshine Beach SHS becoming a School of Excellence.
The recognition not only celebrates the school's ongoing commitment to AFL but also marks a significant milestone for the Sunshine Coast. Sunshine Beach is now the second school on the coast to join the elite program, following Mountain Creek State High School.
AFL Participation Manager – Queensland, Mark Handley, said Sunshine Beach SHS’s entry into the AFL Schools of Excellence program is the culmination of years of dedication, innovation, and hard work.
“One of the key factors that led to the school’s selection was its specially designed curriculum, which integrates football training with academic support,” he said.
“This unique approach allows students to balance their athletic aspirations with their educational goals, ensuring that they can thrive both on the field and in the classroom.
“Additionally, the school has implemented a series of pathway programs aimed at providing students with opportunities not just to play, but also to become coaches, umpires, and volunteers within the AFL community. This holistic approach ensures that Sunshine Beach students have the tools they need to pursue a range of AFL-related careers, whether on or off the field.
“The school’s facilities also played a crucial role in the recognition. Sunshine Beach boasts a full-sized school oval, recently upgraded with new goalposts, providing an ideal environment for training and competition.”
For teacher and Head of Year, Shanon Hill, who has been a driving force behind the school’s AFL program, the announcement was the culmination of years of hard work and passion.
"Sunshine Beach State High School is deeply committed to Australian Rules Football, with participation numbers steadily increasing due to the game's inclusive nature and its ability to engage everyone," she stated.
"Building upon our tradition of teacher versus student competitions has fostered a vibrant culture of positive relationships.
"We are thrilled to be part of the AFL School of Excellence program, which allows us to develop players, umpires, coaches, and create pathways that strengthen our community connections. Our recent hosting of the GAWA Elcho Island AFL event provided a valuable opportunity to share, respect, and celebrate First Nations culture, and we are proud to continue this as an annual tradition.
"The AFLQ Schools Cup, AFL Lightning Cup, and the addition of Division 2 school competitions will further enhance our passion for the sport. We firmly believe that AFL is the best sport in the world!"
Sunshine Beach State High School Principal, Anthony Swan added, “Sunshine Beach State High School is excited to be the most northern school as part of the prestigious AFL Ex program. The AFL Ex Program will be part of every year level providing an incredible pathway for AFL players."
With the AFLW Premiership Cup on site for the announcement, there was plenty of excitement ahead of the Brisbane Lions hosting a preliminary final at Brighton Homes Arena on Saturday as they search for back-to-back Premierships.
As part of the AFL Queensland Schools of Excellence, Sunshine Beach SHS will compete against the state’s top AFL schools and have access to more specialised coaching, competitions, and resources.
To learn more, visit: https://play.afl/queensland/schools/schools-of-excellence
12 schools in the AFL Queensland Schools of Excellence
- Brisbane South State Secondary College
- Helensvale State High School
- Mountain Creek State High School
- Narangba Valley State High School
- Pacific Pines State High School
- Palm Beach Currumbin State High School
- Park Ridge State High School
- Southport State High School
- Springwood State High School
- Sunshine Beach State High School
- Victoria Point State High School
- Woodcrest State College
*a 13th school will be announced into the program next week.
