Gold Coast have announced that young defender Connor Budarick has penned a three-year extension with the club, tying him down until the end of 2025.
Budarick, who was picked up with the 16th pick of the 2019 rookie draft after being a part of the Suns' Academy, expressed his delight in re-signing with the club.
"As a Gold Coast local, it's a privilege to be able to play AFL football in my home town in front of friends and family," Budarick told goldcoastfc.com.au.
"I've loved the SUNS for many years having joined the Academy as a teenager, so to be able to continue my career here is really exciting.
"We've got a playing group which is really connected and striving for the ultimate success, and I'm keen to play my part in achieving that success for the Gold Coast community."
Speaking to goldcoastfc.com.au, General Manager of Player Talent and Strategy Craig Cameron said the 20-year-old is set to become an important figure for the Suns in the coming years.
"To secure Connor for a further three seasons is another significant commitment to this club after a number of key re-signings already this year," Cameron said.
"Since joining us a few years ago, Connor has been very impressive and is still so early into his career, so we see him as an important long-term player for the SUNS."
Budarick has played 17 games for the Suns, after making his debut in Round 1 of 2020, however, suffered an ACL rupture in Round 2 in 2021, ending his second season early.
The emerging defender made his long-awaited return to the VFL in Round 1 against the Northern Bullants, racking up 22 disposals before backing it up with a 12 disposal and one goal performance in Round 2.
Budarick joins Gold Coast youngsters Ben King, Ned Moyle and Elijah Hollands in re-signing for the club, while highly-rated South Australian pair Izak Rankine and Jack Lukosius are rumoured to be close to finalising new deals with the Queensland club.
