SANFL star James Tsitas will fill Gold Coast's final list spot after winning the two-horse race for the role at Carrara.
The Suns announced they had obtained the 26-year-old's signature in a statement on Monday morning, with Tsitas joining the expansion club under pre-season Supplemental Period (SSP) rules.
Gold Coast Suns General Manager Player Talent and Strategy Craig Cameron stated that the club were over the moon to land the new Sun.
โWeโre thrilled to be able to welcome James to the SUNS, heโs worked relentlessly on his game over a number of years and now gets his opportunity at the highest level,โ Cameron toldย goldcoastfc.com.au.
โSuns fans will love the way he goes about his football in a tough, competitive way, he has a great attitude and will really complement our midfield group."
We've officially filled our final AFL list spot. Welcome to the club, James Tsitas. https://t.co/bXapf6JfJL
— Gold Coast Suns (@GoldCoastSUNS) February 7, 2022
Tsitas averaged 28 possession for Woodville-West Torrens at SANFL level last season, with his efforts helping the merged club to claim back-to-back flags.
With the 2021 Magarey Medal winner's big body being preferred over the AFL experience provided by fellow contender Nathan Freeman, Cameron paid praise to the former Magpie and Saint's effort over the summer.
โIโd like to take this opportunity on behalf of the club to thank Nathan Freeman for his commitment and professionalism over the past six weeks whilst training with our playing group, we wish him all the best for the future," he added.
The Grovedale product will now join recent import and ex-Cat Charlie Constable within the Suns' midfield collective.
The pair's journies north will allow Gold Coast to add coverage in the centre after losing Hugh Greenwood and Will Brodie to the Kangaroos and Dockers respectively this off-season.
Tsitas and the Suns are set to face the Lions and Cats in pre-season clashes across the next month before their season proper commences on March 20 against the Eagles in Perth.
