Ablett deal dashes Geelong homecoming dream

GARY ABLETT has signed a new deal with the Gold Coast Suns, dashing Geelong’s hopes of luring him back.
The Suns announced this morning that Albett had signed a new three-year deal, which should cover the rest of his career.
The Gold Coast SUNS are thrilled to confirm Gary Ablett has signed a three-year contract extension.
Ablett said he was “rapt”.
“For some time I had indicated to the club and my management that I wanted to extend my contract with the Suns,” he said.
“When I joined the Gold Coast Suns I was aware it would be a responsibility and privilege to play a role in forming a new club, in an expansion market for our great game. But I never anticipated the ride to be so fulfilling.
“The Gold Coast Suns are a fantastic club, made up of great people who have all made such a significant contribution to both the AFL and the Gold Coast community.
“I am proud of what we have achieved so far off the field, and I know that with hard work, we are capable of achieving so much more on-field in the future, and that’s why I have re-committed to the Suns.
“We still have plenty of work ahead of us, but I strongly believe that we have the right people in place to take our club forward.”
Suns chief Andrew Travis said Ablett’s re-signing was a significant milestone for the SUNS and the growth of AFL in Queensland.
“Gary’s commitment is terrific news for everyone involved with the club,” Travis said.
“To confirm the Gold Coast has secured one of the competition’s most recognisable and best players for a further three seasons sends a strong message that we are all committed to achieving success at the Gold Coast Suns.
Travis said Ablett’s decision reflected the playing group’s faith in the club’s future.
“We were always confident of retaining Gary. He and his manager, Liam Pickering, gave us that indication all the way through and that allowed us to complete the deal in a professional manner.
“What shouldn’t be overlooked is that Gary’s new deal is a huge vote of confidence in our program, our coaches, his teammates and the direction of the club.”