Gold Coast SUNS stalwart Jamie Stanton has announced her retirement today from AFLW after 78 games. After Debuting in 2017 at the Brisbane Lions and a year at North Melbourne, Stanton joined the Gold Coast SUNS as on of their first ever signings for their inaugural season in 2020.
The small forward leaves behind an impressive on-field legacy, including an inaugural Club Champion award, two leading goalkicker honours and selection in the 2020 All-Australian squad. Stanton made history as the first AFLW player to be given SUNS life membership.
Head Coach Rhyce Shaw and Stanton crossed paths due their respective roles at the StreetSmarts SUNS Academy program before reuniting as coach and player following Shaw’s appointment in 2024.
With Stanton taking on more of an off-field role in the 2026 season, Shaw praised her impact on the club over the past seven years, which will continue for years to come.
"She's just one of those characters that is really important to footy clubs," Shaw said.
"She's determined. She's got great footy knowledge. She has high standards.”
"She's curious. She's stubborn. She's all that stuff that makes good players what they are."
The Head Coach reflected on their relationship when giving his tribute to her career in front of the playing group on Tuesday morning.
"We've shared a lot. Some good stuff, some tough stuff. We've had some really good conversations, some really tough conversations, some hard conversations," Shaw said.
"One thing we know about Stan, she'll never give up. She's as stubborn as they come. And that's what's made her great.”
Shaw reiterated the respect Stanton has from the playing group and that she has provided this club with a lot of memories over her time here
"I think if we can reflect that as a group and individuals, I think we'll be in a better place for that. And that's probably the legacy that Stan has.
"I know we'll celebrate you as we go throughout the year. But I just want to say thank you for everything you’ve given the Gold Coast SUNS ," Shaw said.
