Delisted Saint Jack Peris could soon earn an AFL lifeline, with the 19-year-old linked with a future as a Gold Coast Sun.
Peris began his AFL journey in 2021 after St Kilda selected the speedster as a Catagory B Rookie out of their Next Generation Academy.
The son of Olympic sprinters Nova Peris OAM and Daniel Batman, Peris broke through for a single senior appearance during his two-year stay at Moorabbin, representing the Saints during the club's Round 18 loss to Gold Coast at Carrara.
The teenager must have impressed that afternoon, as SEN's Tom Morris reported on Wednesday that the Suns are interested in bringing Peris to the Sunshine State.
Gold Coast has expressed interest in delisted @stkildafc speedster Jack Peris, the son of 1996 Olympic gold medallist Nova Peris OAM & late 2000 Olympic sprinter Daniel Batman. @1116sen @traderadio
— Tom Morris (@tommorris32) October 4, 2023
Having played for Nightcliff in the NTFL, Peris is adept at playing footy in the heat, and while his AFL career is currently capped at just one game, the noted athlete performed solidly for St Kilda's VFL affiliate Sandringham, averaging 14.1 disposals throughout 30 games for the Zebras.
Peris has also proven he knows where the goals are, slotting 18.12 during his time at Trevor Barker Beach Oval.
While football is now his vocation, Peris once had sights on following in his parents' footsteps by running for Australia at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. However, both injury and COVID put paid to these plans.
Gold Coast appears set to be busy this off-season, with each of Chris Burgess and Mabior Chol seeking exits from the club.
Though the Suns are currently armed with picks at the 2023 AFL Draft, should the club wish to pursue Peris, Gold Coast are able to sign the youngster as a delisted free agent.
