Former GWS and Gold Coast defender Jake Stein has returned to Queensland, signing with VFL side Southport midway through the 2025 season.

Stein had joined Victorian local club Castlemaine for the Bendigo Football Netball League season, however has decided to move back up north.

The 195cm defender brings both AFL experience and a VFL premiership medal to the Sharks after spending seven seasons in the AFL.

A category B rookie signing with GWS, Stein moved from athletics to football to join the AFL's youngest club, with his debut coming in 2019 - his third season with the Giants.

Stein would play all 20 games of his career with the New South Wales club, with the Penrith native delisted at the end of 2022.

He would find a lifeline with Gold Coast for the next season via the Rookie Draft.

Gold Coast Suns reportedly interested in axed Giant Jake Stein
CANBERRA, AUSTRALIA - APRIL 22: Jake Stein of the Giants kicks during the round six AFL match between the Greater Western Sydney Giants and the St Kilda Saints at Manuka Oval on April 22, 2022 in Canberra, Australia. (Photo by Mark Kolbe/Getty Images)

While Stein wouldn't feature at AFL level during his time with the Suns, the backman did play 20 games in Gold Coast's premiership-winning campaign.

A return to the Sunshine state will see Stein suit up fo standalone club Southport for the rest of the current VFL season, with the 31-year-old confirmed as a mid-year signing ahead of Round 11.

The Sharks are scheduled for a bye this week before returning to the field next Saturday when Southport travel to face Sandringham.

Coach Matt Primus has the Sharks sitting atop the VFL ladder, having won seven of their nine games, as well as recording one draw.