Exuberant midfielder Elijah Hollands has committed his bright future to the Gold Coast SUNS until at least the end of 2024.

The former number seven selection from the 2020 AFL draft has extended his contract with the club after fully recovering from an ACL injury suffered in his draft year.

The young and exciting midfielder spent the majority of his first season with the SUNS building strength back in his knee before finishing the year with a string of both VFL and VFL practice matches.

“I’ve signed a two-year contract extension which is obviously really exciting,” Hollands said.

“It was no-brainer, an easy decision really, the club has taken great care of me and I’ve enjoyed my time here so far.

“This group is building a great culture at the footy club and it’s something I want to be a part of.”

Hollands was bullish on what he thought the club could strive to achieve in 2022 after his first full pre-season in SUNS colours.

“It’s been really exciting; we’ve had a really good summer.”

“We’re trying to build a solid foundation to kickstart us this year, the energy is great, everyone is up and about.

“We’re really looking forward to the year ahead, obviously the group has high hopes of playing finals footy and we often talk about being the first group of AFL players at the SUNS to do it, which is a great motivator, it’s something that really drives us.”

Personally the 19-year old has set himself realistic goals for 2022 as he continues his journey towards AFL Football.

“I’ve done a lot of training in the midfield group this pre-season, working with Steven King and the other midfielders which has been amazing, watching and learning how they go about their craft.”

“Hopefully I can build a really solid foundation and some consistency in my game, understanding the structures and the basics which can transition me into playing AFL footy.”

General Manager Player Talent and Strategy, Craig Cameron said it was exciting to see the club’s core playing group buy in to the what the club is striving to build.

“We’ve got a committed young playing group who are all buying into the football program and looking to drive their own success, so we’re thrilled that Elijah can see that journey as well and has recommitted to the Gold Coast SUNS,” Cameron said.

“Elijah has worked extremely hard over the past 24 months to get his body ready for the rigors of AFL Football and we’re excited to see him produce that consistently on field over the next couple of years.”

SUNS members and fans will get their chance to see Hollands push his case for his AFL debut in upcoming pre-season matches against Port Adelaide and Geelong at Metricon Stadium.

Elijah has committed himself to the SUNS through to 2024, have you committed to a 2022 Gold Coast SUNS Membership? Visit goldcoastfc.com.au/Membership

It’s your Club, It’s my Club, It’s Elijah Hollands Club.