Gold Coast intercept defender Charlie Ballard has re-signed with the Suns a year ahead of free agency, extending his stay north of the Tweed for another four seasons.
The 25-year-old was due to come out of contract at the end of 2025 but has opted not to explore free agency or negotiate the rival offers bound to present next season.
Ballard has played 133 games across seven seasons with the Suns, growing into their most reliable defender behind key back Sam Collins, often ranking highly amongst the league for his intercepting and aerial prowess.
His best season so far came in 2021; taking 141 marks for the season with career-high numbers across the board and even polling three Brownlow votes.
He spoke of his dedication to the Gold Coast Suns, where his tenure will stretch beyond a decade if he fulfils his latest extension.
“I've made a home for myself on the Gold Coast and have such a close connection with the staff and players here at the SUNS,” Ballard said.
“I'm excited by what this group can achieve and want to continue to do everything I can to help us win games and achieve sustained success in the future.”
Heralding from Sturt in South Australia, Ballard's journey from his junior days has been a stunning success story; drafted in Round 3 back in 2017, being thrown into the fire in Round 7 of his debut year, winning none of the first 10 games of his career, and now relishing an important role down back under Damien Hardwick.
Suns' list manager Craig Cameron shared his pleasure in locking in a key cog down back for the future at Gold Coast.
“Charlie has been an important player in our backline for many years and it's fantastic to have him extend beyond free agency,” Cameron said.