The Gold Coast SUNS are pleased to announce Rory Thompson has extended his contract until the end of the 2019 season.

The 200cm defender played junior football with the Southport Sharks prior to signing with the SUNS in 2010 as a local talent access selection.

Thompson, 25, has played 79 AFL games since making his debut as a 20-year-old against the Sydney Swans at Metricon Stadium in Round 16, 2011.

“Obviously I’m very excited to be staying at home on the Gold Coast. I was born and bred here and looking forward knowing I’m going to be here for a few more years,” Thompson said.

“I love the lifestyle here. I’m into my surfing, fishing, golf and all that sort of stuff out in the sun and I’m very excited where the club’s at as well. The future’s looking pretty bright up here and I think it was a good time to re-sign.

“We made some key signings in the trade period in Pearce Hanley, Jarryd Lyons and Jarrod Witts. They can all come in and play a role and have an immediate impact for us."

General Manager - Football Operations, Marcus Ashcroft said the club was thrilled to extend Thompson's contract.

"We are rapt that Rory has re-committed to the club until the end of 2019,” Ashcroft said.

“It is evident that he is an important player for us going forward, and as a Gold Coaster he is a player that junior footballers across the coast can look up to and aim to follow in his footsteps.”