Touk Miller is only six games into his football journey, but already he looks set for a long and prosperous time at the top level. The teenager has been one of the SUNS' shining lights during a tough start to the season, with his cleanness and smart decision making belying his inexperience.
 
Again on Saturday night, against tough opposition in Adelaide, Miller wasn’t overawed by the occasion, nor was he stifled by an opposition midfield boasting stars of the competition in Rory Sloane, Patrick Dangerfield and Brodie Smith.
 
The 19-year-old Victorian is gathering momentum by the week, with his last month of football earmarking him as a genuine contender for this year’s Rising Star award.
 
On Saturday night, Miller collected 21 possessions, five inside 50s and four tackles to be one of Gold Coast’s key contributors. Despite the impressive start to his career at Metricon Stadium, Miller admits he’s still trying to become accustomed to the game at the highest level.
 
“I think I’m just trying to find my feet still. I don’t feel at home yet out on the ground, but I’m slowly starting to get there,” Miller told SUNS RAW following the 41-point loss to Adelaide on Saturday night.
 
“I’ve still got some minor skill errors I really need to fix up when I use the ball. I’ve got a long way to go, it’s only my sixth game, so hopefully there’s more to come.”
 
The injury plague that has descended on Metricon Stadium, coupled with untimely suspensions, has forced Rodney Eade and the coaching staff to play Miller through the middle more than they would have anticipated at the beginning of the year.
 
But Miller isn’t complaining at all. Given the fact the former Vic Metro and Calder Cannons captain has spent the duration of his football life in the midfield, he is relishing the added midfield minutes.
 
“I’m loving it (more midfield minutes). I originally came here trying to burst into the midfield, maybe in second or third year,” Miller said.
 
“But, I wouldn’t say it’s lucky we’ve got injuries, but it’s probably to my benefit a little bit that I can get myself in the midfield and spend a bit of time and hopefully that benefits me in the future.”
 
Along with mature-aged rookie Adam Saad, Miller is emerging as one of the more exciting young prospects in the game. His last month has been exceptional, with his manic pressure and strength in the contest a standout, especially given his age. With Saad claiming last round’s Rising Star nomination, similar recognition won’t be far away if Miller’s form continues at this rate.