Gary Ablett has reached out to reassure teammates after revelation of trade request
GOLD Coast captain Gary Ablett has reached out to his Suns teammates to assure them he is 100 per cent committed to them and the club.
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GARY Ablett has reached out to his Suns teammates to assure them he is 100 per cent committed to them and the club.
In a text message to the entire team obtained by The Courier-Mail the dual Brownlow Medallist addresses the circumstances behind his request for a trade back to Geelong.
It can also be revealed Ablett stayed back three weeks after the team broke up at the end of the season to rehab his shoulder and played a key role in helping recruit Pearce Hanley from the Lions.
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He was also in touch with Michael Barlow by text from the US last week when he was mulling over an offer to join the club as a free agent.
Ablett has been given an extra week off by the Suns for a delayed honeymoon and was not present when they returned to training on Monday, but still became the major topic at coach Rodney Eade’s first press conference of the season.
Ablett messaged his teammates when news broke he raised the possibility of a trade to Geelong with the club at the end of the season.
In it he explains his reasons for not raising it with them previously.
“Firstly, I honestly didn’t think it would happen and secondly, the reasons behind it awkwardly restricted me in discussing this with people,’’ he wrote.
“I just want you to know that there has been some pretty significant things going on in my immediate family and have been for a few years now. Over the last 12-18 months things have deteriorated which prompted me to consider the possibility of a trade.
“I just want you guys to know that the club is aware of our circumstances and expressed their care and have offered to support where possible.
“Please know that I am honestly REALLY looking forward to next year and being 100% committed to you boys and the club, despite my own circumstances.”
Ablett’s wife Jordan has also struggled to adapt to life on the Coast, since moving here earlier this year, and wishes to return to Melbourne to be closer to her family.
It is understood the couple wish to start a family.
Eade said the players had responded well to Ablett’s text and were supportive of his situation.
In recent weeks Touk Miller and Callum Ah Chee have spoken of their belief Ablett’s heart is still with the club
Eade said his investment in the club was proved by his assistance in the clubs post season recruitment.
“We’re empathetic to Gary’s situation,” Eade said.
“We know he’s got family (in Geelong) and there’s things he’s got to work through.
“He’s totally committed and spoken to at least two of the players that were recruited to get them over the line.
“He’s very comfortable with where he’s at and he’s looking forward to a big year.’’
Originally published as Gary Ablett has reached out to reassure teammates after revelation of trade request
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