One of the AFL’s most in-demand key forwards is officially off the trade table after recommitting to the Gold Coast Suns.
After months of speculation, Ben King has signed a two-year contract extension to remain in the red, gold and blue until at least the end of 2026.
Several Victorian clubs had tried to lure the star back home to Melbourne, but the Suns managed to stave off rivals to keep King on the Coast.
“We know how much Ben loves being at the Gold Coast SUNS so it’s pleasing to be able to finalise a new contract before the season starts to allow Ben to focus on helping us win on-field,” Suns General Manager of Player Talent & Strategy Craig Cameron said.
“Ben is a key player in our future under Damien Hardwick and we look forward to seeing what he can achieve with the Gold Coast SUNS in the years to come.”
The 23-year-old said his decision to remain loyal to the club which drafted him sixth overall in the 2018 AFL Draft was reflective of his love for teammates and staff.
“I’m pumped to commit to the club and our playing group for what is going to be an exciting period for us,” King said.
“There’s no ceiling to what we can achieve. I think we can challenge for premierships in the next few years and have the people and processes to do that.
“I love the group of boys we have, love the staff, love the community, and think we have the right people to challenge for flags in the future.”
King has played 73 games in his five years with the Suns, despite missing the entire 2022 season through an ACL injury.
It comes as the club unveiled its 2024 four-man leadership group on Sunday, with Touk Miller and Jarrod Witts once again named co-captains.
They’ll be joined by Noah Anderson who has been promoted to the vice-captaincy alongside existing vice-captain Sam Collins.
