SUNS LAND AFLW ACE

THE Gold Coast Suns have pulled off the first big coup of the AFLW player signing and trade period, luring Jamie Stanton home from North Melbourne.

Stanton becomes the fourth AFLW player to join the Suns’ list after the club announced their three inaugural signings in February.

The former Lion finished sixth in North Melbourne’s best and fairest on Friday night after an incredible season which saw her finish in the Kangaroos’ top five for disposals, metres gained, contested possessions, clearances, marks, kicks, handballs and inside 50s

She also represented the Suns in the 2018 Winter Series and played for Coolangatta before moving to Wilston Grange.

Suns’ head of women’s football Fiona McLarty said Stanton would be a huge player for the club in 2020.

“In her three years of AFLW experience so far she has proven herself as one of the competition’s best midfielders so to welcome her back to the Gold Coast, her home, is a fantastic result for the club,” McLarty said.

“Her professionalism and work-rate is top shelf and her character off the field will be vital as we look to develop a strong club culture.

“Jamie will be an important to us as we establish a strong environment for our players and set high standards for those involved in our inaugural AFLW season.”

Stanton is a former junior Matildas football player but has quickly found her feet in the AFLW.

The 22-year-old high school teacher averaged 17 disposals for the Kangaroos in 2019, highlighting her ability to win the football.

Stanton joins Kitara WhapFarrar, Charlotte Hammons and Ellie Hampson on the Suns’ AFLW list for their inaugural 2020 campaign.