Versatile big men don’t grow on trees, making the re-signing of powerhouse swingman Sam Day until the end of 2019 an important move for the Gold Coast SUNS as they look to rise up the premiership ladder next season.

The South Australian has played pivotal roles at both ends of the ground for the SUNS in 2016 and confirmed he was committed to the club for the long haul.

“My family and friends back in Adelaide are really important to me but started here right from the get-go with the SUNS and looking forward to seeing this through,” Day told SUNS TV on Thursday afternoon.

“There’s been some tough times with the boys but really excited for the times ahead.

“We’ve seen over the last four weeks now, the core group been playing together. Unfortunately we’ve had a couple more injuries to those really important players but really excited about what we can build here.

“It’s really exciting times for myself and then the club going forward.”

In crediting his manager, Peter Rohde from Stride Sports, List & Strategy Manager – Scott Clayton welcomed Day’s decision to extend his future on the Gold Coast.

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

“Sam is highly respected at the club, he has the unique ability to play at both ends of the ground and he is part of a core group of players we believe will bring a culture of respect and success to the Gold Coast.

A powerhouse athlete with a notable leap, Day was recruited the SUNS with selection 3 in the 2010 NAB AFL Draft and has played 91 AFL games.