THERE'S no doubt in Jamie Stanton's mind what she wants to do once retirement from playing becomes official at the end of Gold Coast's season.

The 30-year-old, who announced on Tuesday 2026 would be her last season, wants to be a coach.

Stanton has already made strides in that area, leading Queensland's women in state games victories against Tasmania in 2024 and 2025.

She has also helped draft eligible players in Gold Coast's Academy the past few years.

"I see the game a bit uniquely, so I'd like to think I can use it, otherwise it just becomes empty knowledge," Stanton said.

"I'd like to give back to the game that has given me so much, so any club that's interested, call me."

Stanton has lived a unique playing experience at the top level, being part of Brisbane, North Melbourne and Gold Coast as fledgling clubs.

She has played 78 career games and became the first AFLW player to be recognised by Gold Coast as a life member last year.

Current coach Rhyce Shaw said the clever forward had all the attributes to lead her own team.

"She's seen a lot and done a lot and had different experiences and that bodes well for her coaching career. She knows her footy," Shaw said.

"She's one of those characters that is really important to footy clubs. 

"She's determined. She's got great footy knowledge. She has high standards. She's curious. She's stubborn. She's all that stuff that makes good players what they are.

"She's a lifetime football person, so I can't see that changing and she'll have a career in coaching for as long as she wants, I reckon."

Stanton said telling her young teammates this would be her last season was more difficult than she thought.

"Choosing to end something you love is never easy," she said.

"I'm not someone that is super emotional, but the fact I want to cry every time I think about it, says it all."