In a major show of support for the club, Gold Coast SUNS young gun Matt Rowell has signed a contract extension until the end of 2023.
The 2019 NAB Draft number one pick burst onto the AFL scene in 2020 before suffering a shoulder injury in round five against Geelong.
Rowell said he was looking forward to his future on the Coast.
“I’m very excited to commit myself to the Gold Coast SUNS,” he said.
“I’ve loved the football club since I’ve arrived and I couldn’t be happier to extend for another two years.
“Getting to play my first game was really something special, I’ve been dreaming of it my whole life.
“I loved running out with the boys and to be a part of a few wins for the club was exciting. I can’t wait to have that feeling again.”
Rowell was named the Round 2 NAB Rising Star Nominee for his performance against West Coast where he accumulated 26 disposals, 14 contested possessions, seven tackles and kicked two goals.
The recently turned 19-year old said he is remaining positive despite the shoulder injury and is focused on his rehabilitation.
“It’s obviously frustrating, but that’s footy, you get injuries,” he said.
“I’ve had a positive mindset since it happened and I’m looking forward to coming back bigger and better.”
In a message that will excite SUNS members, Rowell promised to take his game to another level when he returned.
“I’m doing all I can to improve myself and my game and I can’t wait to get back out there in front of our members at Metricon Stadium again,” he said.
General Manager Football Operations, Jon Haines, said Rowell had made a big impression on everyone at the SUNS.
“Matt is an outstanding young man from a wonderful family and has already had an enormous impact on our football club,” he said.
“We have no doubt that impact will continue to grow as his career progresses at the SUNS and his commitment is further evidence of the playing groups commitment to each other and the future.”
Rowell’s contract extension continues the positive news at the SUNS which includes a membership record, four Rising Star nominations, five debutants and a contract extension for Senior Coach Stuart Dew.
