AFL battlers Gold Coast have locked up talented youngster Ben King until the end of 2022, after he signed a two-year contract extension.
The 202cm 19-year-old key position player kicked 17 goals from 14 games this year in his rookie season.
He earned a Rising Star nomination in Round 19 after a four-goal performance against Essendon.
King was taken by the Suns with pick six in the 2018 draft.
His commitment is welcome news for the Gold Coast franchise who have lost several players to fellow rivals in recent seasons.
“I’m loving my time at the club, am excited by the challenge we have in front of us and have confidence we can achieve all we want to in the future,” King said.
“It’s clear to see the direction of the footy club, we’ve got a great group of players and people who are all buying into the club’s vision and that’s definitely something I was keen to be a part of.”
The Suns finished last in 2019 and lost their last 18 games with the AFL subsequently announcing a rescue package which includes the first two picks at this year’s national draft.
“We are thrilled that Ben has joined an ever-growing list of players to extend their playing contracts with the club and his signature generates excitement for our players and staff and importantly our members and fans,” Suns chief executive Mark Evans said.