Key defender Charlie Ballard has committed to the Gold Coast SUNS beyond free agency, signing a four-year contract extension.

Already contracted for next season, the new deal will see the 25-year-old remain in the red, gold and blue until at least the end of the 2029 AFL season, taking his tenure at the club beyond a decade.

Ballard has been a cornerstone of the SUNS defence in recent seasons, playing in all of the club’s 46 games over the last two seasons.

In total, the South Australian has played 133 AFL games throughout seven seasons on the Gold Coast.

“I’ve made a home for myself on the Gold Coast and have such a close connection with the staff and players here at the SUNS,” Ballard said.

“I’m excited by what this group can achieve and want to continue to do everything I can to help us win games and achieve sustained success in the future.”

Gold Coast SUNS General Manager of Player Talent and Strategy Craig Cameron said the club was pleased to lock in the core of its defence for the future.

“Charlie has been an important player in our backline for many years and it’s fantastic to have him extend beyond free agency,” Cameron said.

Ballard was drafted by the SUNS with Pick 42 in 2017 and finished equal-fifth in the AFL for intercept marks in 2024, with three per game.