Gold Coast SUNS club veteran Nick Holman has today announced his retirement from AFL football at the conclusion of the 2026 season.

Holman informed his teammates on Monday morning of his decision to call time on one of the AFL’s most incredible journeys following Thursday night’s Round 24 match at Marvel Stadium.

The announcement sees the curtain close on a career spanning 11 seasons and 154 games across two clubs.

Originally drafted to Carlton where he played nine games across two seasons, Holman quickly became one of Gold Coast’s favourite sons after joining in the 2018 rookie draft.

The 31-year-old, who will live long in the memories of SUNS fans as one of the club’s toughest and most selfless servants, has played 145* games in the red, gold and blue – equal 12^th on the club’s all-time list – to go with 79 goals and a hefty strapping tape bill.

Holman reflected on the journey with teammates and staff on Tuesday morning.

“It’s been a big couple of days with lots of emotions, but I’m proud of the fact I’ve given my all every day throughout the journey,” Holman said.

“I want to thank both the Gold Coast SUNS and Carlton football clubs for giving me the chance to live out a childhood dream. 

“To the SUNS, thank you for taking the chance on me. I’m extremely grateful for this football club and I’d like to think I’ve repaid that faith as a player. This place is full of great people and it’s been such an amazing place to come to work every day.

“My favourite part of playing AFL football has been being able to bring so many people along on the journey. Friends and family have travelled all across the country watching me play and having the opportunity to give back to those people who have given so much to me is the most rewarding part and my greatest achievement.

“I’ll miss coming in here every day, it’s been a hell of a ride.

“Now it’s time for the next chapter and one I’m excited for. I leave this place knowing it’s in great hands with a list full of youth, talent and hard work. It’s a recipe for success and I’m looking forward to watching that unfold from the stands.

“Now, we’ve got one more job to get done on Thursday night.”

Gold Coast SUNS Chief Executive Mark Evans thanked Holman for his incredible contributions to the football club.

“Nick’s AFL journey, not only with the SUNS but Carlton prior to arriving here on the Gold Coast, is a remarkable story of dedication and resilience and one that Nick and his family should be immensely proud of.”

“Throughout nine seasons at the club, Nick has been the ultimate clubman, teammate and player.  You would be hard-pressed to find a more committed player who would do anything for his teammates.

“He is universally loved and respected within the four walls of our football club and embodies everything that it means to be a Gold Coast SUN. We would like to thank Nick, his partner Ellen and his extended family for all they have given to our football club and wish them all the best in what’s next.”

Senior Coach Damien Hardwick confirmed Holman would play a final match in SUNS colours on Thursday night against St Kilda.

“You don’t hope with Nick, you know exactly what you’re going to get week in, week out,” Hardwick said.

“That’s why our club and our members and supporters love him so much. The way he attacks the ball, the way he gives 110% for this club every time he takes the field, that’s something we can lean into, and more importantly, bring to the game this week.

“He is the quintessential role player. He sets a standard for our football club and the challenge for our group now is understanding that his legacy is the standards that he leaves behind.

“He’s been a remarkable servant of our football club and hopefully we get the opportunity to celebrate one final win for him on Thursday night.”