The Gold Coast SUNS have extended the contracts of another two youngsters, with Jesse Lonergan and Henry Schade signing until the end of 2015.

Lonergan was selected with the No. 13 pick in the 2012 NAB AFL Draft and became the 42nd player to make their AFL debut for the GC SUNS against Fremantle at Metricon Stadium in Round 6.

A graduate from the AFL Australian Institute of Sport Academy Lonergan has impressed all at the GC SUNS in his first year with the club.

Lonergan said he was ecstatic to extend his contract with the club.

“I’m rapt to have re-signed with the club. I’ve enjoyed the move to the Gold Coast and I’m loving my time up here.”

Lonergan’s contract extension coincides with fellow Tasmanian Henry Schade, who has also put pen to paper and re-signed with the club.
Schade was the GC SUNS first selection, No. 24 overall in the 2011 AFL draft.

The 196cm defender is a future key position player who has been spending plenty of time in the gym adding size to his ever growing frame.

Schade said he never had any doubt that he would recommit to the GC SUNS.

“It was never in any doubt from my perspective, I’m working really hard in the gym and with our development coaches to make sure that I’m ready for senior football as soon as possible.”

GC SUNS List Manager Scott Clayton said the club was thrilled to secure Lonergan and Schade.

“We are over the moon to extend the contracts of both Jesse and Henry,”

“What is really pleasing is that our young players are really keen to recommit to the football club and that is a huge vote of confidence that we are heading in the right direction and that they believe that we are creating something pretty special here on the Gold Coast.”

Lonergan and Schade join teammates Jack Martin, Zac Smith, Trent McKenzie, Seb Tape, Rory Thompson, Jackson Allen, Clay Cameron and Charlie Dixon who have all re-committed in 2013.