The Gold Coast SUNS are pleased to announce that the AFL have today approved the expansion signing of Brisbane Lions captain Leah Kaslar.
Kaslar had been with the Lions since their AFLW inception and joins the SUNS after playing 21 games in three seasons for Brisbane.
She grew up in Cairns where the SUNS have ties through the club’s talent academies and partnerships.
“The connection to Cairns was huge, that’s where I’m from and I love that the club’s engaged with those north regional areas which is pretty special to me,” Kaslar said.
“On top of that it does feel like I’m coming home here and the opportunity to work with new people and play for a club I’ve supported for a long time is a really great opportunity.
“I’ve done a lot of travel and lived in different places in Australia but the Gold Coast is always somewhere I come back to.”
Prior to being drafted, Kaslar was also captain of Coolangatta’s QAFLW side and continues to play her club football on the Gold Coast.
“As a leader I like to lead by example and through my actions and I’m known for my work ethic,” Kaslar said.
“I don’t really have an off switch so I kind of go at everything with 100% intensity.
“I love building relationships with people and I like seeing people get the best out of themselves.
“I’m really keen to work with our players in trying to help them achieve what they want to achieve.”
Gold Coast SUNS Head of Women’s Football Fiona McLarty said it was fantastic to get someone of Kaslar’s calibre into the club.
“Leah has proven leadership skills and vast experience at AFLW level which will be invaluable for our playing group,” McLarty said.
“As we Get Set for 2020, we want to ensure we create an environment that enables our players to succeed both on and off the field.
“We’re really excited to have Leah at the club and can’t wait to see the impact she will have.”
Kaslar was named in the AFLW All Australian squad in 2017 and 2018, continuing to be one of the most reliable key position players in the competition.
The 33-year-old has always demonstrated strong leadership capabilities and had been a part of Brisbane’s leadership group since her first season.
Kaslar’s signature takes Gold Coast’s AFLW list to a total of 12, with two days to go in the AFLW Sign & Trade Period.
GC SUNS AFLW list as of April 16
- Charlotte Hammans
- Ellie Hampson
- Kitara Whap-Farrar
- Jamie Stanton
- Tori Groves-Little
- Paige Parker
- Tiarna Ernst
- Jacqui Yorston
- Sam Virgo
- Lauren Bella
- Emma Pittman
- Leah Kaslar
