In a significant development for the Gold Coast SUNS, the club has successfully completed a three-way trade involving Collingwood and Port Adelaide. As part of this deal, the SUNS have bolstered their squad by acquiring John Noble, an experienced defender from Collingwood. In return, key players Jack Lukosius and Rory Atkins will be moving to Port Adelaide, marking a strategic shift for all teams involved.
The details of the trade reveal that the Gold Coast SUNS will receive John Noble along with pick 39 and two future first-round selections, one tied to Collingwood and the other to Port Adelaide. In exchange, they will part with Lukosius, Atkins, and several 2024 draft picks, including picks 13, 29, and 50. This complex exchange aims to address the specific needs of each team, ensuring both immediate player acquisitions and future drafting opportunities.
Gold Coast SUNS General Manager of Player Talent & Strategy, Craig Cameron, expressed confidence in the move, stating that acquiring Noble strengthens the club’s rebound defense while adding valuable experience to the squad. He highlighted that the draft selections gained would also help the club continue building for the future. Cameron further noted that discussions with Lukosius and Atkins had led to a mutual understanding that a trade would be in everyone’s best interest, and he acknowledged their contributions to the club over the years.
John Noble brings with him an impressive track record, having played 112 AFL games for Collingwood, including 20 in the 2024 season alone. At 27 years old, Noble’s career began when Collingwood recruited him with pick 14 in the 2019 Mid-Season Rookie Draft. Since then, he has played in seven finals, showcasing his consistent performance on the field. His arrival is expected to provide a significant boost to the SUNS’ defense.
On the other side of the trade, Jack Lukosius and Rory Atkins both leave behind notable legacies at Gold Coast. Lukosius, drafted second overall in the 2018 national draft, played 116 games across six seasons with the club. Atkins, who joined the SUNS in 2020 from Adelaide, contributed 37 games over four seasons. Their move to Port Adelaide will be pivotal in shaping the team’s future lineup.
This multi-club trade exemplifies the strategic planning involved in AFL, with all three clubs securing valuable assets to enhance their rosters and long-term prospects.