Queenslander Koby Coulson is one of the leading products to come out of the Gold Coast Academy this year.
Concealed by the big three Suns Academy boys entering 2025, Coulson quickly stamped himself as a player worth tracking with his excellence in the Coates Talent League, and went to another level at the U18s National Championships, averaging 24 disposals and five tackles, relishing the midfield responsibility.
An old-school, hard-nosed inside midfielder who wins the ball in and under and can distribute to teammates, Coulson does his best work around stoppage and switches from offence to defence in a flash if the opposition wins the footy.
His ability to get from contest to contest and run both ways are also enviable traits, with that strong tank a result of a brilliant work ethic, with those around him noting him as one of the hardest trainers in a strong group of Suns Academy players.
He got VFL exposure and handled the step up well, matching it physically, and, crucially, after multiple seasons of being held back by injury, which resulted in players such as Beau Addinsall and Dyl Patterson going past him, he got through a full season unscathed.
Others will feature on more highlight reels and have perhaps more upside, but don't be surprised to see Coulson in the background of some big moments, facilitating the entertaining flair of his teammates with his trusty, team-first play.
Expect a bid to come somewhere in the middle portion of the draft.
| 47 RANK |  | Koby Coulson Gold Coast Academy Utility HEIGHT: 180cm | â–¶+ |
Strengths
Versatility
Work Rate
Creativity
Draft Range
Picks 30-55
Potential Landing Spots
Gold Coast (Matched Bid)
