After somewhat of a breakout season in 2024, versatile forward Ben Long is eyeing more consistency in his game in 2025.

Having played the majority of his 111 games in the defensive half for both the SUNS and St Kilda, the swing forward by new Senior Coach Damien Hardwick proved a masterstroke with the 27-year-old slotting a career-high 26 goals.

His 17 games was also a mark only reached once before in his career and he has set his sights on playing a key role inside forward 50.

“I’ve played at both ends in my career, but I think I had a consistent year last year and I hope to build on that again this year,” Long said.

While Long’s focus is squarely on preparation for the Opening Round clash against Essendon, his attention will momentarily switch to next weekend’s Indigenous All Stars clash in Perth.

Long, whose ancestry is steeped in football royalty, is one of two SUNS alongside fellow Darwin product Joel Jeffrey to be selected in a 31-man squad to take on Fremantle next Saturday.

Long says it’ll be a proud moment to run out on Optus Stadium.

“It’s a privilege and an honour, a lot of great players have been part of that side,” Long said.

“It’s not just a chance to represent them, but our family and our culture. It’ll be a great time for us to all to come together.”

Long is hoping the opportunity for the league’s finest Indigenous stars to put on a show together will act as inspiration for the next generation.

“I hope it’s going to be a massive impact on the Indigenous communities and inspire those boys and girls who look up to us.”