The 2022 AFL Season has been rich in feel-good, heartwarming moments since the beginning of the year and amongst a lot of negativity circling the AFL world, it seems right to look back on some of the best moments from this season thus far.
From players returning from injury to goals after the siren, we here at Zero Hanger have compiled a list of 10 of the very best stories of the year.
This list is in no particular order and is here to reflect on some of the best moments and, as always, let us know which is your favourite from this season.
The Gold Coast Suns
There's just so much to like about this young and exciting Gold Coast team.
The quality of their list is vastly underrated and even with season-ending injuries to so many first 22 players, the Suns continue to impress every week.
Stuart Dew has just re-signed, they're pushing for finals while tallying up some impressive victories over tough sides, and they are blooding a team filled with young talent.
Many aspects of this season would have most AFL fans quietly supporting the Suns this season.
Firstly, their forward line is set to be one of the most exciting in years to come. We've seen Izak Rankine take his game to a whole new level, Malcolm Rosas and Joel Jeffrey staked their claim in the front six, Hewego Paul Oea's background and story are incredible, and Levi Casboult and Mabior Chol have both come in as new recruits and completely changed the way they play.
We also saw young gun Alex Davies have a special moment with his grandfather, who travelled from Japan to watch his grandson play against the Crows. In a truly heartwarming moment, Davies' grandfather took part in singing the song in the rooms after the win too.
Just last week, midfield jet Noah Anderson sunk the Tigers in a thrilling contest after the siren after the Suns were 40-points down at one stage and 10 points down with just over a minute to go. The scenes, the raw emotion and the celebrations were enough to make all AFL fans, barring Richmond's, crack a smile and think 'how good is this!'.
Amongst this, it's easy to forget the established talent in the team. They've got Anderson, Matt Rowell, Jarrod Witts and Touk Miller in the middle. Sam Collins is supremely underrated at fullback, while important defenders like Charlie Ballard quietly put together impressive games.
Even if they just fall short of a maiden finals appearance, the Suns have lost no fans in 2022 and are a side to keep an eye on next year as well.
