GOLD Coast has announced the signature of former Hawthorn defender Tom Murphy in a deal it believes will help to develop the Suns' group of emerging defenders.
Murphy, 26, played 95 games during his eight seasons with the Hawks, and was a member of the club's leadership group for his last four seasons.
He's expected to play a big role in supporting Suns defenders Rory Thompson, Seb Tape, Henry Schade, Matt Shaw and Trent McKenzie.
The Suns' general manager — football operations, Marcus Ashcroft, said the club was thrilled to secure the mature defender.
"Tom not only brings great experience from Hawthorn to the club, but we believe he will play a vital role in continuing to develop our group on and off the field," Ashcroft told goldcoastfc.com.au.
Gillette AFL Trade Period hub
Murphy was an unrestricted free agent because he fell outside the range of Hawthorn's top 25 per cent of salary-earners.
He has become the Suns' first recruit to be signed in the Gillette AFL Free Agency period.
Murphy said he was rapt to be joining the Suns.
"They’re a club with a heap of talent and I can't wait to join the team and help them take their next step.
"I will be forever grateful to everyone at the Hawthorn Football Club. I really enjoyed my time there but I'm now really looking forward to continuing my career with the Gold Coast Suns."
Hawthorn selected Murphy at No.21 in the 2004 NAB AFL Draft. He stood in as the club's captain in the final round of the 2011 season.
The most disappointing aspect of his time at Glenferrie was that he played early finals in 2008 and 2012 only to be dropped for the Grand Final in both seasons.
Hawthorn coach Alastair Clarkson wished Murphy all the best at the Suns.
"Tom has made a valuable contribution during his eight years at Hawthorn Football Club and I'm sure he will be an excellent leader and teacher for the younger players at Gold Coast," Clarkson said.
"He is much admired and respected by our playing and coaching group and we wish him well in his next AFL opportunity."
Murphy won Hawthorn's most improved award in 2008 - the club’s premiership year - and he was voted best clubman in 2010.
