Ernst to fly her flag on the Coast

GOLD Coast have fended off Brisbane to land their first AFLW premiership player.

Former Western Bulldogs player and 2018 flag winner Tiarna Ernst will play in the Suns inaugural AFLW team in 2020.

“I’m very excited. It’s a new chapter of my footy career,” Cairns junior Ernst said.

The doctor has taken up a new job at the Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital, where she is an advanced trainer in obstetrics and gynaecology.

The 31-year-old was offered a spot on both Brisbane and Gold Coast’s lists and was even encouraged by the Bulldogs to go to the Lions. But Ernst said the Suns pitch proved too good.

“We had a very brief conversation that was driven through the Bulldogs,” she said.

“I was very impressed with the Lions department and the success they have had, particularly in the first two seasons.

“At the end the Suns were able to provide me a more impressive opportunity and I like the feel of the club far more than what I was exposed to at the Lions. It made it an easier decision. I was quite drawn to the Suns anyway.”