The Gold Coast SUNS has finalised its list for the 2025 Toyota AFL Premiership season with outside midfielder, Ben Jepson, signing on.
Jepson has impressed since being invited to train with the club throughout pre-season and has filled the club’s one remaining list spot as a pre-season supplementary selection.
The news was broken to Jepson and the playing group by close friend and new teammate, Noah Anderson, during the SUNS’ pre-season camp in Byron Bay.
“It’s everything I’ve wanted to be since I was a kid. To get an opportunity with the SUNS on an AFL list is incredible,” Jepson said.
“Finishing up a big couple of days at camp and to have my great mate, Noah Anderson, announce in front of the group that I’ve got a spot on the list…it means the world. I’ve been training with the squad for a few months now and to finally have that is amazing.
“My goal over the last few months has been to earn this spot, so I’ll probably have to reassess now. I’m on an AFL list, but I think being an AFL player sounds better so getting the opportunity to debut is the goal now.”
The 23-year-old Oakleigh Chargers product has starred in the VFL for both Coburg and Southport in recent seasons.
He won the Lions’ best and fairest in 2023 before taking his game to another level in 2024, earning VFL Team of the Year honours and representing the league in last April’s representative match against the SANFL.
He thrived behind the ball at Southport to finish as the Sharks’ best and fairest runner-up, averaging 24.7 disposals at 82.9 per cent efficiency across 22 appearances in his first season on the Gold Coast.
“We’re pleased to be able to offer Ben a place on our AFL list for the 2025 season,” GC SUNS General Manager of Player Talent and Strategy Craig Cameron said.
“His drive and desire for success has impressed throughout pre-season and we’re excited for him to begin his AFL journey here on the Gold Coast.”
Jepson will wear the #44 guernsey in 2025.
After having one list position open following the 2024 Telstra AFL Draft period, the club had the opportunity to select a player during the pre-season supplementary period, which closes on February 21, or hold the spot for the 2025 mid-season draft.
Gold Coast face Collingwood and the Brisbane Lions in a match simulation on February 20, before hosting the Sydney Swans in an official practice match on February 28.
The club will host Essendon in Opening Round at People First Stadium on Saturday, March 8. Tickets are selling fast and the best way to guarantee your seat is to purchase a 2025 SUNS membership.
