Coast shows faith in untried teen with new deal
WIL Powell is yet to play an AFL game but the Gold Coast Suns have underlined their faith in the midfielder with a two-year contract extension.
Recruited from Perth’s Claremont club with pick 19 at last year’s AFL draft, the 18year-old has signed a contract extension that will take him through to the end of the 2021 season.
A member of Claremont’s WAFL colts grand final side in September, Powell only played his first game of senior football in March against Palm Beach Currumbin in a Suns practice game.
“I’m loving my time on the Gold Coast. Being drafted to the Suns was a dream come true and now I get the opportunity to live out that dream for longer,” he said.
“I’m thankful to the Suns for giving me the opportunity to play AFL football and I had no hesitation in committing to the club long-term. Luckily for me, the Suns are providing a fantastic environment for all players.
“There’s parts of my development that I need to continue to work on to get myself to a level where I’m able to play consistent AFL footy and I’m loving that challenge.”
Suns list manager Craig Cameron said the club had unwavering belief in their first pick from the 2017 draft. “We’re pleased that Wil has committed to the club,” Cameron said.
“It’s clear that he is up for the challenge of being an AFL footballer and we can’t wait to be on that journey with him.
“Wil is a hardworking young man who brings plenty of energy to the group and in his short time at the club has shown he is committed to developing his game.”