Rising duo can stay ahead of the game
GOLD Coast Suns teammates Touk Miller and Kade Kolodjashnij will complete a perfect season when they play Sydney today and it is a similar off-field approach that has got them there.
They will become the only Suns players to have played in every one of the club’s 22 games this season when the siren sounds at the SCG.
The fact that Miller is in his first year and Kolodjashnij his second is only part of the feat for two players who have been able to navigate through the Gold Coast’s worst injury crisis in club history.
Miller said it would be special moment for the duo when they take to the field for the game.
“I’m pretty lucky to play every game and have to give a lot of credit to (coach Rodney Eade) ‘Rocket’,” Miller said.
“He has believed in me the entire year and my form hasn’t been perfect the whole time but he has given me the opportunity.”
The Rising Star nominee has excelled in numerous roles this season, most recently in the midfield, and averaged 16.9 disposals and five tackles per game.
Kolodjashnij scuppered any threat of falling victim to the second-year blues, becoming one of the Suns’ premier defenders and the expansion club’s highest ball user.
The professional approach to every facet of the game are the traits that have played a huge role in the pair’s ability to eclipse their peers.
It could be just the beginning for Miller and Kolodjashnij who refuse to buy into the hype about themselves and are not content with what they have done in the early stages of their careers.
“There is plenty more to come and I have got a long way to go yet,” Kolodjashnij said. “I’m not happy with where I’m at and have got a lot of work to do.
“Hopefully this is just a glimpse of what is to come.
“It gives me confidence that I can play some good footy.
‘‘I want to be one of the very best players I can be so there are some exciting times ahead.”
Kolodjashnij said the two had brushed the surface of their potential and backed Miller to also thrive in his second season next year.
“He is an all-round professional so I think he will be fine next year,” Kolodjashnij said.
“He just needs a good break to get his body right then have a good pre-season and I’m sure he will have a great season next year.”
He (Rodney Eade) has believed in me the entire year and my form hasn’t been perfect the whole time but he has given me the opportunity TOUK MILLER