The on-field exploits of Kade Kolodjashnij have been there for all to see this season. But, the intangible qualities he brings in terms of leadership and direction, particularly for such a young player, is what has impressed Rodney Eade most.
 
The second-year rebounding defender, with just 31 games of senior football to his name, has elevated his standing in the game this season. During adverse circumstances due to a diabolical injury list at times, Kolodjashnij has acquired the unofficial title of defensive leader in recent months. A duty he has performed with aplomb.
 
Kolodjashnij has been a picture of consistency this year. As soldiers have fallen around him, the polished left-footer has carved out weekly performances built on reliability. Time and time again, the Tasmanian sets up play from backwards of centre with his shrewd ball use.
 
As a former pick No. 5, the Tasmanian’s talent is not a subject of debate. The way he has combined his football prowess with an aptitude for responsibility has been even more important according to Gold Coast coach Eade.
 
“His leadership has been terrific for four, five, six weeks now,” Eade told the media following the SUNS' 55-point win over North Melbourne.
 
“He’s been extremely good for weeks. When we played Freo, out of our seven defenders we played, he’d played the most games at 28 games.
 
“I keep saying internally we’ve had a lot of growth in that area, a lot of growth with our culture and standards.
 
“(But) people don’t see that - they’re only going to worry about the win-loss and the things that happen this week take that back in peoples minds.
 
“But really he’s one that’s stood up. I thought he was fantastic tonight.”
 
Kolodjashnij is one of only three players to play every game this season (Michael Rischitelli and Touk Miller are the others), becoming a permanent fixture in Eade’s back six.
 
The ever-dependable rebounding defender is averaging 21.1 possessions at a kicking efficiency rate of 71.2 per cent, 5.6 marks and 4.6 rebound 50s.
 
With Steven May and Nick Malceski returning in recent weeks, and Rory Thompson not far away, the evolving case of Kolodjashnij will be an intriguing one to watch given the recently returned leadership and experience in the back six.