The wins keep coming for new Gold Coast Suns coach Damien Hardwick.
Young gun Wil Powell has opted to turn his back on free agency to sign a lengthy contract extension with the Suns.
The 24-year-old has inked a four-year extension, which will see him remain in the red, gold and blue until at least the end of 2029.
The news comes just weeks after Powell became a Dad for the first time, with the star defender admitting he’s over the moon to have committed his future to the club.
“It gives you a nice pat on the back for how the club thinks of you,” he said.
“I feel respected at the SUNS and I feel like I’m a leader now for the younger players coming through.
“I feel really comfortable on and off the field, it’s such a family-orientated club and it made my decision to sign on the dotted line very easy.
“The extension takes me until I’m 29 years old which is crazy to think about. If they told me that I would be drafted and play until I was 29, and hopefully more, I would have laughed.
“I’ve worked hard to get here and I’ve had great support from my family, my partner and especially the club.”
Gold Coast SUNS General Manager of Player Talent & Strategy Craig Cameron admits securing Powell long-term is a “terrific outcome” for the club.
“Since arriving at the club, Wil has continued to impress both on and off the field, developing into one of the finest defenders in the AFL and being regarded as a young leader among the playing group,” Cameron said.
“He’s an important part of our future which is why we’re thrilled to have finalised a contract extension that will see him remain on the Gold Coast for many years to come.”
