Rory’s proof of Suns goals
RORY Thompson will make history tomorrow by becoming the first Gold Coast product to play 100 games for the Suns.
Thompson, 27, will break new ground for the Queensland club when he reaches the milestone during Gold Coast’s Round 16 game against North Melbourne at Etihad Stadium.
“It’s a unique opportunity being the first Gold Coaster to reach 100 games for the Suns,” Thompson said. “I’m pretty proud of that. “It’s taken me a lot longer than other people; I’ve had a few setbacks along the way but I’ve loved every minute of it.
“I’ve been here a fair while now and ideally without injuries it would have been great to notch it up earlier, but I’m glad the club’s given me the opportunity.”
The Southport Sharks junior represents everything the AFL and Gold Coast wanted from the expansion club and his century of games has set the bar for the next generation of players who can see the increasing opportunity to get to the top level in their home city.
Thompson was the first in a growing line of Gold Coast players to make their way into the club.
The 200cm key defender has been at the club since day one after being taken as a Queensland access selection before playing in the TAC Cup in 2009 alongside current Suns David Swallow and Tom Nicholls.
“It’s been such a unique
and long journey,” Thompson said.
“I can’t speak for other players that have gone to an established AFL club but to see the club grow from the ground up, and be a part of that, and get to where we are today in this (training and administration) facility is pretty amazing.
“It’s pretty different at the moment to what it was back then, playing in the old Carrara Stadium, and I think our whole set-up for the club was in one little demountable.
“I wouldn’t change it for anything.
“I think it keeps you really humble.
“Coming from those beginnings as a football club and seeing where we are, you don’t take anything for granted. We’re so privileged to have what we have.”
Thompson, who will become the 12th player to reach 100 games for the Suns, has endured a host of setbacks during his eight years at the club, with multiple injuries hindering his ability to put together consistent football during periods.