Recently delisted Gold Coast Suns forward Will Rowlands has confirmed his return to junior club Norwood for the 2025 SANFL season.
Taken with Pick 18 in the 2023 Rookie Draft, Rowlands was delisted without making a senior appearance in his only season on the list.
He lined up in 16 VFL games for the Suns, averaging a goal and 10 disposals per game including a bag of five majors in Round 21 against the Casey Demons.
Originally from the Northern Territory, Rowlands played his U16 and U18 football with the Redlegs, proving to be a skilful and clever player with ball in hand.
Displaying his ability to play across half forward and in the midfield in his draft year, Rowlands kicked 17 goals from 10 matches while averaging 19 disposals and three clearances per game.
That included an outstanding return of 30 disposals and five goals in the Round 8 victory over West Adelaide.
Still only 19 years of age, Rowlands will be hoping to expand his game and earn more midfield time upon his return to The Parade.
Speaking to the Norwood website, Rowlands said he was keen to return to his former club.
“I'm happy to be back in the red and blue. It will be a good season ahead,” Rowlands said.
“Norwood was a big part of my development through the U16s and U18s, and that's the reason why I became a better player and teammate.
“Norwood was always the club I was coming back to when my AFL journey came to an end. I hope to get the most out of myself and my football.”
Norwood General Manager of Football Richard Kelly anticipates Rowlands will make a big difference to the Norwood lineup.
“We are excited that Will has made the decision to return with Norwood off the back of a stint in the AFL,” Kelly said.
“Will is an explosive player and will complement our forward line nicely.
Rowlands is Norwood's second addition of the off-season after signing Sturt midfielder and 2023 Reserves Magarey Medallist Charlie Molan.
He will have plenty of opportunities to break into the senior team, with forwards Matt Panos, Henry Nelligan, Sam Morris and Goy Lok all departing in recent weeks.