Matt Rowell has provided the Gold Coast Suns with a major boost after the No.1 draft pick re-signed for two more years to carry him through until the end of the 2025 season.
The star midfielder cited how the club’s recent improvement had made him excited to commit pen to paper with the prospect of a historic first premiership for the club looming as his ultimate target.
“I really love the footy club and think we’re moving in a really good direction,” Rowell said.
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“I’m really confident in the group we have that we’re just going to get better. The group has put a lot of hard work in, and I’ve signed the contract because I know we’ve gone through that tough bit and now we’re seeing some improvement.
“The end goal, which really drives us as a footy club, is to win that first premiership for the Gold Coast Suns.”
The 21-year-old burst onto the scene in 2020 when he polled nine Brownlow Medal votes across three consecutive matches. Although he then endured a terrible run as two campaigns were cruelled by injury.
Upon his return to action, he seemed off the pace which led to Kane Cornes voicing his concerns about the midfielder’s ability to make a mark on the competition in the future.
“I’m worried about Matt Rowell, I’m not sure what his weapon is going to be,” he told SEN earlier this year.
“I don’t see any great speed or explosiveness away from the stoppage. I don’t see a lot of penetration in his kick or a lot of depth, or an accuracy with his kicking. I don’t think that’s ever been his strength.”
However, Rowell featured in every game for the Suns this season and quickly reminded everyone of his talent in defence by leading the club for tackles (158).
And he has been rewarded for his strong return from injury with a new deal which has removed one of the most high-profile off-contract stars from the market.
The club showcasing their commitment to both Rowell and fellow star Noah Anderson by trading Jack Bowes and pick No.7 to Geelong to create salary cap space for the duo.
“It’s fantastic for the club to have Matt locked in for the next two seasons and we are excited by what’s to come in his career,” Gold Coast general manager Craig Cameron said.
“Matt is an important part of our young core group of players, many of whom have committed their futures to the club in recent times.”
Rowell’s signing coming hot on the heels of fellow young guns Jack Lukosius, Ben King, Elijah Hollands and Connor Budarick also re-committing to the Suns.
