As the countdown to the 2026 AFL season gathers pace, the Gold Coast SUNS’ next wave of talent is stepping forward with confidence, and StreetSmarts SUNS Academy product Ethan Read is ready to make his mark.
Over the summer, the 203-cm SUN showcased his unique combination of speed and height, recording a personal best in the Gold Coast’s 2km pre-season time trial, which he’ll be looking to utilise across a new role on the wing this season.
The 2025 Rising Star Nominee has quickly become one of the Gold Coast SUNS’ most promising homegrown players and is focused on establishing himself further at AFL level this season.
“My goal is to play more consistent AFL footy,” the 20-year-old said.
“I got a taste of it last year and put together a few games, but it’s a long and tough season, so building consistency is a big goal for me this year.”
Despite heading into his third year, Read shared that pulling on the SUNS guernsey still carries a special meaning for him as a Gold Coast local.
“I grew up barracking for the SUNS and went to so many home games, so it’s an honour and a privilege to run out in the jersey I supported as a kid. I’m very grateful for it,” the Palm Beach Currumbin junior said.
“Getting drafted anywhere was the dream but being at the SUNS is just a bonus. I’m really happy where I am and the best thing for me is I still get to live at home and be around my friends and family, which is huge.
“Then coming through and now playing footy with people I grew up playing junior footy with, that’s a big advantage and something I’m really grateful for.”
After signing an extension in 2024 that ties him to his home-club until at least the end of 2028, Read said remaining at the club and close to home made the decision straightforward.
“As an 18-year-old you want security, and being able to stay at home around family and friends was really important to me,” the young SUN said.
“I love the club, so it was a pretty easy decision.”
With the recent State of Origin clash between Western Australia and Victoria capturing attention, Read said the concept has only strengthened his desire to one day represent Queensland.
“It would be awesome. Watching that game, you realise you get to play against the best players in the AFL,” Read said.
“Queensland is probably a bit behind the Big V, but I’d love to run out in a Queensland jumper one day.
“That’s something I’d love to see more of in the AFL.”
Read experienced his first taste of finals footy with the SUNS last year and shared the group is embracing the energy around the club as anticipation builds ahead of Opening Round this Friday.
“We’ve taken momentum from last year into this pre-season and now into the season ahead. It’s really exciting.”
Don’t miss out. Secure your SUNS membership to catch all the action when the SUNS take on 2025 Grand Finalists Geelong Cats under the lights at People First Stadium Friday March 6.
