The 2022 Gold Coast SUNS HOSTPLUS Most Professional Player is has been awarded to Ben Ainsworth for his strong influence both on and off the field. 

The 24-year-old led an impressive campaign in 2022 in a new look forward line, both hitting the scoreboard with 25 majors and being the conduit between the midfield and attack end. 

Ainsworth’s endurance and work-rate was elite while his footy smarts put him in good stead against the league’s best defenders.

He also set the tone with his meticulous training standards and dedication to the team throughout the season, always leading by example. 

The forward ranks third in the league for total goal assists, leads the club for total marks and is second to only Nick Holman at the club for tackles inside 50.

Ainsworth is one of only two players in the league to have kicked 25+ goals and had 25+ goal assists in 2022 alongside Geelong All-Australian key forward Tom Hawkins.

Adding evidence to his outstanding season, Ainsworth is also the only player in the competition to average 15+ disposals, 1+ goal and 1+ goal assist per game in 2022.

The 24-year-old played in all 22 SUNS games for the season and was one of the club’s most exciting young players to watch.