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'No ceiling' as King commits to two-year Suns extension

3 minute read

Ben King has agreed to extend his career on the Gold Coast, where three-time AFL premiership coach Damien Hardwick will begin his tenure this season.

BEN KING of the Suns kicks the ball during the AFL match between the Gold Coast Suns and the Western Bulldogs at Metricon Stadium in the Gold Coast, Australia.
BEN KING of the Suns kicks the ball during the AFL match between the Gold Coast Suns and the Western Bulldogs at Metricon Stadium in the Gold Coast, Australia. Picture: Russell Freeman/via Getty Images

Ben King has agreed to remain on the Gold Coast and expects the club to be challenging for an AFL premiership before his latest contract expires in 2026.

The key forward on Friday agreed to a two-year extension that had been on the table over the off-season, finally ending speculation about the former No.6 pick's medium-term future.

The Suns have never finished better than 12th and have backed three-time premiership coach Damien Hardwick to lead them into fresh pastures in the club's 14th AFL season.

Gold Coast's ability to retain their biggest names had been miserable until recent years, before young stars Matt Rowell, Noah Anderson, Jack Lukosius and Bailey Humphrey all committed long-term.

"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.

"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."

The 23-year-old missed the entire 2022 season with a knee injury but is already the club's third-highest goal-kicker, with 129 in 73 games.

"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," talent and strategy boss 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."

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