New Gold Coast SUN Aaron Young’s move is one he hopes will not only provide him with more playing opportunities, but also the chance to provide leadership to a developing playing group.

The midfielder/forward has played 76-career games over six seasons, with his best return coming in the 2016 season that saw him play 21 games.

That same year, Young booted 37 goals to finish second in Port Adelaide’s goal kicking stakes behind dual All-Australian Chad Wingard.

After not having the continuity of football in 2017, Young jumped at the chance to head north in search of more game time.

“It was just a really good opportunity,” Young told goldcoastfc.com.au.

“Everyone just wants to play footy, so if someone gives you that chance to play a few more games, then you jump at it.”

Heading into his first pre-season on the Coast, the 24-year-old isn’t just looking to improve his own skills and fitness, he’s also keen to aid the development of his younger teammates.

“Once again I’ll look to improve my fitness base, my skills and my finishing around goals,” he said. 

“But if anything, I’ll look to improve my leadership, especially with a young group. I think that’ll help the boys a lot.”  

His outstanding leadership skills were a key reason that he appealed to the SUNS, while his ability to win one-on-one contests was also important.

It’s likely that we’ll see Young split his time between both the midfield and the forward line, with the Victorian just happy to play his role for the team.

“I’m just happy to go wherever the team needs me. I’ve spent some time on ball and up forward during my seven years at Port Adelaide,” he said. 

“I don’t have a preference either way and hopefully I can spend some time in both and get my hands on the ball and kick a few goals as well.”