While he might have been considered a victim of Gold Coast’s midfield depth, Jack Bowes showed outstanding versatility by returning to a defensive role in 2020.

After playing almost exclusively as an inside midfielder last season, Bowes returned to the backline where he started his career and had his most successful season in SUNS colours.

He played every match of the season for the first time, averaging 17 disposals and four marks per game to finish equal-ninth in the SUNS Club Champion.

The 22-year-old has pure class and seems to have more time with the footy than anyone else around him.

His agility and evasiveness was also on display a number of times, bamboozling opponents with “candy sells”.

Bowes has proven that he’s a best 22 player in either the midfield or backline, and entering his fifth season, will be another important player in 2021.

Stat that matters:
Bowes’ history as a midfielder helped him immensely in 2020. He ranks elite amongst defenders for contested possessions (5.7 per game) and ground ball gets (4.9) as well as intercept possessions (6.2).

Best performance:
Bowes was so consistent, it’s difficult to find a single standout game. In the win against Fremantle he had 18 disposals, with nine of those intercept possessions, to go with five marks. He also had a big impact in the match against GWS, with all except two of his possessions intercepts.

Moment of the season:
For Bowes, it would be earning recognition for his outstanding season with a nomination in the AFL Players’ Association 22Under22 squad. Bowes was one of eight SUNS nominated in the squad, a record for any single club.

Year in a movie title:
Candyman