Gold Coast forward Ben Ainsworth has turned his back on rival clubs, re-committing to the Suns for another four years.
Ainsworth was heavily linked to Essendon, who offered a five-year deal to lure him back to Victoria but has opted to remain loyal, staying in Queensland until the end of 2028.
The 26-year-old was initially taken with Pick 4 in the 2016 National Draft and is excited to see what the future holds.
“I'm really excited to be continuing my career with the SUNS into what I believe will be a successful period for the club,” Ainsworth said, according to the club.
“I've loved my eight years here and can see the future success we are building towards. There's no way I wanted to miss out on that after all the hard work we've done as a group to get to this position.
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“The responsibility is on us now to capitalise on the foundation we've built and become the first playing group to win finals for the Gold Coast.”
GC SUNS General Manager of Player Talent & Strategy Craig Cameron said the club was pleased to retain Ainsworth's services.
“Ben is reaching the peak of his career and we are pleased to extend him for another four years,” Cameron said.
“His progress this year, learning a new system, has been terrific and he will only become a more valuable player for us in the future.”
Ainsworth was starting to put together a strong season before injuries his AC joint in the victory against Port Adelaide in Round 18.
The Victorian has been ruled out for the remainder of the year as the Suns look toward a first finals appearance in 2024.