The Gold Coast SUNS are delighted to confirm Adam Saad has re-signed with the club.

Despite being overlooked in multiple national drafts, Saad produced an impressive debut season in the AFL in 2015. He was elevated from the rookie list prior to round one and in round five earned a NAB AFL Rising Star Nomination.

The dashing 21-year-old’s run and carry from the back-half saw only All Australian Heath Shaw take more bounces last season.

Saad spoke of his gratitude, when he said he wanted to repay the faith in him shown by the club, after the Gold Coast SUNS took a chance on Saad with the 25th overall selection in the 2014 rookie draft.

“I’m really privileged to pull on the jumper every single week and play for this great club,” Saad said.

“The club took a chance on me in the rookie draft two years ago. Rocket’s [Rodney Eade] been a big influence for me and has played a key role in my footy career. He backs me in, has a lot of faith in me to play me every single week, and I just love playing with the players on the field as well.

“We’re building something special… I feel like we’re heading down the right direction.”

In crediting his manager, John Meesen from i50 Management, List & Strategy Manager – Scott Clayton welcomed Saad’s decision to extend his future on the Gold Coast.

“We are thrilled that Adam has confidence in the club’s direction and like us he is excited about the future,” Clayton said.

“Adam has gained so much respect in his short time with the club and he is part of a core group of players we believe will bring a winning culture to the Gold Coast.

“Adam has an incredibly bright future; as a club, we are committed to developing and improving him not just as a footballer, but also as a person, this includes supporting his ambassador role with the AFL in the multicultural space where he is making a real difference on the Gold Coast.”