The Gold Coast SUNS have completed a trade with Carlton for Ben Ainsworth.

 

The SUNS have secured pick 29 in exchange for the small forward, as part of a three-way trade with Carlton and Port Adelaide. 

 

Ainsworth took the opportunity to thank everyone involved with the Gold Coast SUNS for the support and opportunities he has had since joining the club.

 

“The opportunities I have received since joining the Gold Coast SUNS has been nothing short of incredible,” Ainsworth said.

 

“I’d like to like thank all of those involved with the football club, from coaches to players, administration staff and the members and fans for their support and taking a chance on me at the start of my AFL journey.

 

“I’m immensely proud of my career at the SUNS, will always reflect on it fondly and wish everyone involved all the best for what lies ahead."

 

Ainsworth will swap the red, gold and blue for the navy blue after playing 158 games and kicking 137 goals for the Gold Coast.

 

“Ben has been an integral member of our club across the last nine seasons, and we have been open-minded to exploring what might be possible for Ben and his young family,” Gold Coast SUNS General Manager of Player Talent and Strategy Craig Cameron said. 

 

“I’d like to take the opportunity to Thank Ben for his contribution to the Gold Coast SUNS football club and we wish him, his partner Liv and young daughter Gracie all the best for what lies ahead.

 

After being selected with Pick 4 in the 2016 NAB AFL Draft, Ainsworth made 13 appearances in his debut year going on to help the club across nine seasons establish itself into the position it is today. Ainsworth recently received Life Membership of the football club for his contribution. 

 

The Continental Tyres AFL Trade Period concludes on Wednesday 15th October.