The Gold Coast Suns have landed four Academy products during night one of the AFL National Draft.
Zeke Uwland was selected at number two after the Suns were forced to match a bid from West Coast.
The Burleigh Bombers junior will now join big brother Bodi at the club.
“I’m thrilled. He’s a great player in his own right, and I really can’t wait to play with him,” Zeke told Fox Footy.
He’s got some good runs on the board, so now it’s up to me to get a game.”
SUNS National Recruiting Manager Kall Burns says it’s a great moment to welcome another Uwland to the SUNS AFL list.
“Throughout his young career as a Burleigh Bombers player and a member of our StreetSmarts SUNS Academy, Zeke’s work ethic and commitment to getting the best out of himself has been exemplary,” Burns said.
“He’s faced plenty of challenges over the last 12 months, but he’s thoroughly earned this opportunity to become a Gold Coast SUNS AFL player.
The Suns were forced into action a short time later when Richmond put in a bid for Palm Beach Currumbin teen Dylan Patterson at pick number 5, which the Suns also quickly matched.
Patterson caught the eyes of recruiters this year with his raw speed and power, while also playing 11 VFL games across the last two seasons.
The 18-year-old could have chosen any sport and was initially tempted to play rugby league before ultimately opting for AFL.
Patterson crediting his dad for his success so far.
“He’s been the most important person throughout my whole footy journey and just life in general,” Patterson told Fox Footy.
“I deadset could not have done it without him, couldn’t have got to where I am today, and seeing it at number five, I don’t think it would have been close, so I can’t thank him enough.”
The Suns selected Academy product Dylan Patterson at pick 5
The Suns also secured Burleigh Bombers and Broadbeach Cats product Jai Murray after being forced to match a bid from West Coast at pick 17.
The versatile midfielder and defender has been a part of the Suns Academy since he was 13 years old, as well as being a lifelong Suns fan.
“As a member of our StreetSmarts SUNS Academy since he was 13 years old, and being a lifelong SUNS fan, we’re thrilled to see Jai live out his dream to become an AFL player at our club,” Suns Recruiting Manager Kall Burns said.
The Suns’ final selection of the night came shortly after when the club matched a bid by West Coast for Burleigh Bombers junior Beau Addinsall at pick 18.
“He has shown fantastic leadership qualities as a member of our Academy leadership group in 2025, and his aerobic capacity and ability to win the ball in particular are attributes we’re looking forward to seeing him continue to develop under Damien Hardwick,” Burns said.
