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Karmichael Hunt has put pen to paper, re-signing with the Gold Coast SUNS until the end of the 2014 season.
Hunt, who was recently added to the GC SUNS leadership group, says he feels he is on the way to becoming a bonafide AFL player after improving throughout his 16 games last season.
"My main goal was to put my head down and work hard to become an AFL player, that's obviously still in progress, I still feel like I'm getting better and feel like I have got a lot of improving to do," Hunt said.
Hunt enjoyed his football so much so in 2011 that he wanted to be in a position where he could extend his AFL career and is now looking forward to the 2012 season and beyond.
"Half way through last year I thought, you know, I really love playing AFL...I want to start the year off well. We have had a great pre-season so far and I'm looking forward to developing further and playing some football with the SUNS."
When asked how much he enjoyed his first season of AFL, Hunt recalls a conversation he had with a member of the GC SUNS coaching staff, " I said, I haven't had this much fun playing sport since I was playing basketball. It's such a great game, so dynamic, it challenges you physically and mentally."
GC SUNS coach Guy McKenna paid tribute to Hunt's commitment and work ethic.
"Karmichael would have to be one of the most professional athletes I've come across. He has worked so hard to achieve what he has and I take my hat off to him."
McKenna believes Hunt will continue to improve playing in the SUNS midfield. "It's been really exciting watching him grow. The work he has done over the pre-season to earn himself a spot in our midfield has been phenomenal. I have no doubts that he will continue to get better."
Hunt will continue to play a vital role in promoting AFL in Queensland. A role not just with the Gold Coast SUNS but with AFL football in general.
"To be a part of anything from the ground and try to build it up I think is special. It's not just a start up club, it's an AFL club on the Gold Coast in Queensland, so to be a part of it is special. But to stay for a few more years and to help it grow is going to be the biggest reward."
AFL General Manager of Game Development, Andrew Dillon praised Hunt's success.
"The AFL is delighted that Karmichael will continue with us as an ambassador.
"Since he joined the Suns, Karmichael has done a wonderful job promoting his club and the game, particularly among Pacific island communities.
"He will work with us to promote AFL9s and as an AFL Australia Post Multicultural Ambassador.
"On behalf of the AFL, we wish him the best for the upcoming season."