The Gold Coast SUNS 2025 draftees have ditched end of schooling celebrations to kick off their first pre-season as AFL listed players.

The Gold Coast SUNS 2025 draftees have ditched end of schooling celebrations to kick off their first pre-season as AFL listed players.

Zeke Uwland, Beau Addinsall, Jai Murray, Koby Coulson, Dylan Patterson and Avery Thomas joined their new teammates on the track before heading to the Austworld Oval on Monday morning.

After being selected with Pick 5 in last Wednesday’s Telstra AFL Draft, StreetSmarts SUNS Academy graduate Patterson flew home to attend his school formal before quickly shifting his attention to his dream venture at the SUNS.

“At the end of the day it’s a sacrifice you have to make but it’s not really a sacrifice – you dream about it since you’re a little kid,” the 18-year-old said.

“I think formal was important to end off my schooling with all my mates… but I’m doing what I want to do and they can enjoy that (Schoolies).

“I’m sure they’re all going to understand, they’re rooting for me anyway.”

The former Rugby League junior shared how his cross-code experience as a full-back has shaped the athlete he is today.

“I think Rugby League definitely helps with vision in the game and being able to see the game front on,” Patterson said.

“I think that’s why I’ve excelled as a half-back recently – the physicality has helped me build areas in my game.

“Everyone should have a crack at doing multiple sports – there’s no loss from it – you only gain attributes from each sport.”

“I just wanted to be able to enjoy both and spend time with my mates in both codes,” the Palm Beach Currumbin Reds (Rugby) and Lions (AFL) junior added.

“I couldn’t really commit to anything at that stage I just wanted to have fun.

“Obviously it gets to a point where it gets a bit too much to be able to play both and I finally had to make a decision, and I think I made a pretty good choice.”

Having trained on with the SUNS AFL squad during his time at the StreetSmarts SUNS Academy, the young SUN shared the step up has been an enjoyable experience.

“The boys are still getting around and helping us but obviously now you’re a bit more responsible,”

“You’re paid to do your job but it’s still enjoyable and everyone’s here because they love doing it.

“It’s still a long pre-season to go, so I’m just trying to take those small steps first. Just keeping fit, keeping the body right and getting the job done.”

Off the back of a historic 2025 campaign, the SUNS are taking further steps forward in 2026 with plenty of fresh talent on board.

“There’s excitement flowing through the club and definitely through the Academy boys,” Patterson said.

“You can feel the push and the drive. The new recruits, everything – I think it’s only beneficial.

“We’re all looking forward to what next season brings.”