Tasmanian talent Avery Thomas is set to swap the Apple Isle for Queensland after being selected by the Gold Coast Suns with pick 28 in the AFL Draft.
The 18-year-old Launceston product was surprised by his early selection, having expected to be picked later in proceedings.
“It’s an unreal feeling. Still very much in shock from getting drafted” Thomas said.
“It was definitely a bit of a shock to me going as early as I did. I thought I was probably going to go maybe late 30s, early 40s potentially, but to go 28, unreal.”
The versatile defender represented the Tasmania Devils in the Coates Talent League over the past two seasons and earned selection in the Allies squad at the 2025 Under 18 National Championships.
Gold Coast Suns National Recruiting Manager Kall Burns praised Thomas’s competitive nature and defensive capabilities.
“Avery is an incredibly versatile player with an impressive combination of traits and skills that we believe will add great value to our squad,” Burns said.
“We believe he compliments our other acquisitions completed via Trade & Draft.”
The young defender will initially live with Gold Coast coach Damien Hardwick.
“I’m living with Dimmer Hardwick for my first stint whilst I’m there for my first month and then we’ll sort out something for when I come back after Chrissie,” Thomas said.
“It’s going to be unreal.”
“Finding that connection with a new coach and being able to just live with and learn off him … I’ll be on my best behaviour for sure.”
