Gold Coast SUNS veteran Michael Rischitelli will play on with the SUNS in 2019.

Heading into his 16^th season of AFL Football, Rischitelli said he was looking forward to continuing his career, bringing valuable experience to the club.

“It’s great to see the direction the club is heading under Coach Stuart Dew, and I’m excited by the opportunity to be able to play on in 2019,” Rischitelli said.

“I definitely feel there is a lot I can still contribute around the club.”

After an injury interrupted past two seasons in which he managed just 16 games, Rischitelli missed just one game throughout 2018, playing 21 of a possible 22 games.

“Playing a new role in defence this year, allowed me to see the game differently and lead our young group out on the field,” said Rischitelli.

“My body has held up really well this year and it’s great to get some continuity back into my football after a couple of years with only a handful of games.”

GM – List and Strategy, Craig Cameron, looked to reinforce the importance of Rischitelli to the club moving forward.

“Michael is a really important part of our playing group and highly respected by his fellow teammates,” Cameron said.

“We’re pleased he wants to play on next year, he will continue to be a great asset for our playing group to learn from.”

Rischitelli will continue his career as a Rookie listed player, with the GC SUNS committing to select Rischitelli at the NAB AFL Rookie Draft on Friday 23^rd November.