Suns Enlist Retired Veterans David Swallow and Alex Sexton for Match Simulation

Gold Coast Suns have included retired players David Swallow and Alex Sexton in their squad for an unofficial match simulation against St Kilda. The club received AFL approval for their participation in the Thursday night match at People First Stadium.

The decision to name Swallow and Sexton comes as the Suns manage playing time for senior stars and contend with player unavailability.

This strategic move addresses current player shortfalls. Matt Rowell, Sam Collins, and Ben King are sidelined following their recent AFL Origin duties. Additionally, Charlie Ballard, Jake Rogers, and Max Knobel are currently out due to injury.

Swallow and Sexton's Continued Club Involvement

Swallow and Sexton both retired at the end of the previous season. Despite stepping away from senior play, they have been actively training with Gold Coast's senior side over the summer. Their commitment extends to signing for the Suns' VFL program for the upcoming 2026 season. Both players also hold coaching roles within the club's Academy and development programs, maintaining strong ties to the organisation.

AFL Origin Representatives Also Featured

The comprehensive 36-player squad for the match simulation also features Noah Anderson and Wil Powell. Both players participated in AFL Origin just five days prior. Anderson and Powell are the first AFL Origin representatives to play in this week's unofficial scratch matches, having completed 79% and 60% game time for Victoria and Western Australia, respectively.