Inaugural Gold Coast SUN Sam Day will finish his time with the club after 14 seasons at the highest level.
Day, who was first drafted by the SUNS with the third pick in the 2010 National Draft, has not been offered a contract for the 2025 season.
The 31-year-old has been the club’s longest-serving player alongside David Swallow and departs after scoring 117 goals in 155 games to sit sixth overall on Gold Coast’s all-time goalkicking list.
GC SUNS General Manager of Football Performance Wayne Campbell thanked Day for his immense contribution to the SUNS since the club’s first season in the AFL.
“Sam has been an absolute warrior for this football club since the very beginning and it is important we recognise the significance of his career at the SUNS,” Campbell said.
“While these decisions are never easy, we have to prioritise the future of our football club as we assess our list heading into next season.
“We know Sam will leave a lasting impact on his teammates and the club, and we wish him, his wife Ali and children Charlotte and Teddy all the best for the next chapter.”
Day said he would depart the club with lifelong memories and friends.
“While I am disappointed to be finishing my time with the SUNS, I am grateful for everything I have been able to achieve in my football career and the relationships I have made along the way,” Day said.
“It’s been a challenging journey at times, but I wouldn’t change it for anything, and know those setbacks have helped shape the person I am today.
“I’d like to thank the SUNS for giving me an opportunity as an 18-year-old, many of the people I have had the pleasure of working with at the club, and the Gold Coast community for showing me so much love throughout my career.”
Day received Life Membership of the football club last year – one of eight players to receive the prestigious honour in Gold Coast’s history.
The key forward is fifth on the club’s all-time games list, a significant achievement after overcoming a potentially career-ending hip injury in 2017, and numerous other long-term injuries.
Day averaged two goals, five marks and five score involvements per game in his five matches in 2024, and will explore further opportunities in his football career.
