With over five years of professional coaching experience, Chris Mundell has become a prominent figure within New Zealand’s AFL landscape.
Initially entering into the AFL New Zealand High Performance Programme in an assistant coaching capacity, Chris has progressed to take on the head coaching role for the New Zealand Under 18 team, the Auckland Buccaneers at a National Provincial level and currently the reigning AAFL Premiership coach with the University Blues. He also acts as mentor for St Kilda’s International Scholarship recruit Giovanni Mountain-Silbery.
In a playing capacity Chris has represented New Zealand at the 2011 and 2014 International Cups as well campaigns against the AFL Academy.
When it comes to highlighting exactly what type of team Mundell will look to target at the AFL New Zealand National Draft, cards are held very closely to his chest.
Mundell stated, “A mix of experience and youth will certainly ensure that some of New Zealand’s best young talent can progress rapidly. With the #1 draft pick, available from a variety of categories, it may be important to ensure that the Suns have access to Academy talent as a priority.”
Read more: New AFL competition to hit New Zealand
With the four captains to be appointed directly by AFL New Zealand for their respective teams, Mundell will wait to see who will lead his team before determining where his #1 draft pick will be utilised.
“With seven categories to select from in the draft, the right selections could give the Northern Suns seven winners. I won’t be announcing to the other coaches anytime soon who my favorites are.”
The inaugural AFL New Zealand Premiership Season, without a previous season to determine draft selection order, will see the initial selection determined by lottery. A full analysis of the AFL New Zealand National Draft will be made available following the release of team names and coaches.
