Impressive NAB Challenge form for the Gold Coast Suns has seen former Coburg and Calder Cannons player Adam Saad earn a rookie elevation prior to the start of the AFL season.
Taken with pick 25 in last year’s AFL rookie draft, the running defenderis now in the mix to make his AFL debut on the MCG in round 1 as Gold Coast play Melbourne on Saturday April 4.
Saad played in all three of the Suns’ preseason matches, impressing with his speed and clean use of the ball in the backline.
General Manager of Football Operations, Marcus Ashcroft said Saad’s rookie elevation was a credit to the 20-year-old’s hard work and professionalism.
“Adam’s elevation to the senior list will come as no surprise to our players or support staff, having impressed everyone with his attitude to training and preparation since his arrival to the club,” Ashcroft told the Gold Coast Suns website.
“His fearlessness and willingness to take the game on complimented our counter attack off half-back throughout the NAB Challenge games.
“Adam’s continued improvement has added great depth to our backline group, and we look forward to watching him push towards an AFL debut appearance.”
See Adam Saad highlights from 2014 in the VFL
Overlooked in the 2012 NAB AFL Draft, the former West Coburg junior watched as Calder Cannons teammates such as Rory Atkins, Lachie Plowman and Joe Daniher all fulfilled their AFL dreams.
He decided to try his luck at Coburg and moved between the seniors and development league as a small forward in his first season.
In 2014 new coach Coburg Peter German sent Saad into defence, and he flourished, earning the attention of AFL recruiters.
Saad had a standout second season in the VFL, sharing Coburg’s’ best and fairest with Daniel Venditti, gaining selection in the VFL Team of the year as a back pocket and impressing recruiters with his speed at the State Combine in October.
The son of Lebanese parents who migrated to Melbourne, Saad is one of six children.
His brother Muhammad this year has followed in his footsteps, gaining selection in the final Calder Cannons squad for 2015.
Last Modified on 24/03/2015 09:40
