New Gold Coast SUNS rookie Tyrone Downie has revealed it was just three weeks ago his dream of becoming an AFL footballer turned into a very real possibility.

The GC SUNS list management team spoke with the 26-year-old in early November about the possibly of relocating north to the Glitter Strip and things progressed from there, with the man known as ’Tigga’ finding himself on Gold Coast's rookie list after last Wednesday’s rookie draft.

“They (Gold Coast) contacted me three weeks ago and just asked if I was interested in nominating for the draft and whether I’d be interested in moving to Gold Coast if that opportunity arose,” Downie told the Bendigo Advertiser.

“Since then I did a time trial with them - a 2k time trial - then had a medical the following day which all seemed to go okay and tick the boxes and then it was just how today (Wednesday’s rookie draft) would pan out.”

Recruiting Manager Dom Ambrogio told goldcoastfc.com.au about Downie’s background, which included two years as a playing coach in the Bendigo Football Netball League, before playing one season in the VFL for the now-defunct Bendigo Gold.

“Tyrone Downie is a bit of a story because he’s a mature-ager, he’s 26, coached Kangaroo Flat for a couple of years. He was the main forward for Bendigo Gold, kicked 31 goals this year. He’s a fantastic mark and a natural goal kicker,” Ambrogio said.

Prior to arriving on the Gold Coast last Thursday, Downie admitted he couldn't wait to get stuck into pre-season training with his new teammates.

“It probably hasn’t sunk in quite yet. I’m very excited, but I know there’s a lot of hard work to do when I do get up to the Gold Coast and look forward to the challenge ahead,” he said.