The Gold Coast SUNS have traded for three-time premiership defender Daniel Rioli after striking a deal with Richmond during the Continental Tyres Trade Period.
Rioli reunites with Senior Coach Damien Hardwick at the SUNS, with the club trading picks 6 and 23 in the 2024 Telstra AFL Draft to the Tigers in return for the 27-year-old and picks 51, 61, 70 and 76.
Gold Coast SUNS General Manager of Player Talent & Strategy Craig Cameron said the club was pleased to acquire a player of Rioli’s quality.
“Daniel brings class and pace to our backline which we are really excited about,” Cameron said.
“We know he has great experience being in a successful system and believe he will be a valuable leader for our group in the coming years.”
Rioli joins the SUNS on a five-year contract after 183 games of AFL experience with Richmond, including 13 finals.
He was first drafted by Richmond with pick 15 in the 2015 AFL Draft when Hardwick was at the helm of the Tigers.
Rioli had arguably a career-best season in 2024, which included winning Richmond’s best and fairest while averaging 23 disposals, four marks and four rebound 50’s from 23 games.
Trade Summary
SUNS receive: Daniel Rioli, Pick 51, Pick 61, Pick 70, Pick 76
SUNS give: Pick 6, Pick 23
