VFL 2025: Southport Sharks sign Josh Gore from West Adelaide

Southport has signed a former draft hopeful looking to reignite his AFL dream after four years in the SANFL. More here.

Gold Coaster Josh Gore is returning home after four years in South Australia. Picture: SANFL Image/David Mariuz

Former Gold Coast draft hopeful Josh Gore has signed with the Southport Sharks as he looks to reignite his AFL dream.

Gore had spent four years playing with West Adelaide in the SANFL, where he kicked 73 goals across 55 games for the club.

“Just being able to return home was one of the main factors (behind the move),” Gore said.

“The culture at Southport is amazing … they’re so close to a premiership and I just want to come back and be a part of that and hopefully earn the respect of all the players and just seamlessly fit in.”

Josh Gore from West Adelaide reacts after scoring a goal. Picture: SANFL Image/David Mariuz.

Sharks football manager Jarrod Field lured Gore back to the club, and the 23-year-old’s connection with Southport dated back to his under-18 season where he played in a premiership.

In his draft year, Gore played for the Allies and did a full-time senior pre-season with the Gold Coast, but fell short of being picked up.

“It was just a good experience, obviously I didn’t get there in the end but … I think that’s what’s kept me hungry,” he said.

“I got a taste of what the life of an AFL footballer looks like and being so close has kept me motivated to get there one day.”

“That’s been my motivation to keep playing state level footy and play at the highest level I can. I had my time in the SANFL and now it’s time to give the VFL a crack which is exciting.”

Assistant coach Matthew Primus has stepped up to take the reins of the Sharks in 2025 after master mentor Steve Daniel’s decision to step down.