After leading the Kangaroos to 11 wins in 14 games, Gowans was released as head coach in 2020.
Gowans admitted he had no idea his time was up at the club then, but says it's understandable.
Now in charge of the Swans, Gowans told reporters on Wednesday he still stays in touch with a few Kangaroos players.
While acknowledging the Swans are still building as a club, he is hoping they can get a win over the 'Roos.
"It's a little bit like you're playing your brother or your sister," said Gowans.
"You just want to beat them."
North Melbourne are one of the strongest sides in the AFLW, making three finals appearances out of their four seasons since 2019.
Gowans said his players would focus on matching the Kangaroos quarter by quarter.
"If you just go there focusing on what North Melbourne is good at, you probably fall into the trap of playing into their hands a bit," said Gowans.
"You got to take the game to them.
"We'll come up with a few things and take them on."
Sydney were denied their maiden win last week by four points against fellow expansion club Hawthorn.
Though dominating in inside 50s and clearances, the Swans gave up 20 free kicks which proved costly.
Gowans said his players were still learning how to react when behind.
"When you're chasing, you tend to give away a few more free kicks," said Gowans.
"We probably fell into a trap of being a bit overzealous and when you're struggling to get territory.
"It's something we're trying to focus on but I don't want to curb intensity and effort."
The Sydney-North Melbourne clash will go ahead at Swinburne Oval on Sunday after being moved from Arden Street.
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