Young Sun Focuses on Enhancing Footy IQ for a Stronger Season Ahead

Corporatenews desk: Gold Coast’s rising star Jed Walter is making waves as he gears up for his second AFL season, with a significant focus on improving his footy IQ. The 19-year-old key forward, who showcased his potential with 11 goals in 14 games during the 2024 season, is determined to refine his mental approach to the game after an erratic debut year.

Walter, who was drafted at No. 3, admitted that his first season was marked by overexertion and a lack of strategic play. “In my first year, I was all over the place, trying to do everything at once,” Walter said after a rigorous training session at People First Stadium. “Now, I’m playing smarter—focusing on my leading patterns, finding space, and positioning myself better. I feel more confident and demanding of the ball.”

Standing out with his rare combination of speed and physicality, Walter has been working closely with forward line coach Brad Miller to sharpen his mental game. Miller emphasized the importance of adapting to the elite level of footy, where athleticism alone isn’t enough. “At the AFL level, everyone is an athlete. Jed has had to learn how to read the play and position himself effectively to stay relevant,” Miller explained. “This mental evolution is crucial for his growth.”

With the off-season departure of Jack Lukosius to Port Adelaide, Gold Coast is exploring the possibility of deploying Walter alongside Ben King and Ethan Read in a dynamic three-pronged tall forward line. This strategic move could elevate the Suns’ attacking prowess in the upcoming season.

The team’s first major pre-season test will come on Thursday night at Carrara, where they’ll face both Brisbane and Collingwood. This match will be a key opportunity for Walter to demonstrate his improved footy IQ and readiness for the challenges ahead.

As Walter continues to evolve, his dedication to mastering the mental side of footy could prove to be the game-changer Gold Coast needs to climb the AFL ladder in 2024.

CN/GNS