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• An AFL player has signed with the Gold Coast Suns for a one-season contract.

Devoted footballer Jamarra Ugle-Hagan shared an emotional post on Instagram for his girlfriend, expressing gratitude for helping him find ‘the correct way’ following a challenging year out of the game.

It arrives as the full forward aims to revive his AFL career following a second chance granted by theGold Coast Suns in October.

Ugle-Hagan, 23, missed the entire 2025 season with the Western Bulldogsas he struggled with personal challenges, including thoughts of suicide.

The former No.1 AFLdraft selection was first associated with theSydney Swans, before the Sunsmade a last-minute move, presenting a one-year contract.

According to SEN, Ugle-Hagan—who debuted at the senior level in 2021—has made an impression during pre-season training at the Glitter Strip.

“Credit to him for being here and earning everyone’s respect so far,” said Suns assistant coach Shaun Grigg during SEN Breakfast.

He has lowered his head and put in a tremendous amount of effort. His football skills – he has occasionally demonstrated what he is capable of.

For him, it’s essential to continue enhancing his physical condition, maintaining our playing style, the way we want to compete, and to give his best effort in the upcoming weeks.

Off the field, Ugle-Hagan reconnected with his former girlfriend Liv Kelly in December– and on Wednesday, he openly acknowledged her for leading him to ‘the correct direction’.

“HB (Happy Birthday) to my girl. My love. My best friend,” the caption said on Instagram.

Extremely thankful for you and the manner in which you’ve directed me towards the correct path. You’ll be with me always.

Kelly expressed her gratitude to her partner through an Instagram post, stating, “To the man who made today and every day special,” accompanied by a yellow heart emoji.

The pair were in a relationship for 18 months before first deciding to end things at the conclusion of 2024.

Last year, Ugle-Hagan admitted he went to a wellness retreat in northern NSW as part of his efforts to regain control of his life and football career.

“All the sounds truly led me to a rehabilitation center for my mental well-being,” he said to Mitch Robinson and Rhys Mathieson on the Rip Through It podcast.

It reached a stage where I had to give my car to a friend so I wouldn’t be able to drive, I simply didn’t trust myself behind the wheel.

There were moments when I would ponder—truthfully—whether it was still worth continuing to live.

I experienced a tough time where I didn’t feel like leaving my home. I reached a low point and discovered the basement.

The Gold Coast will kick off their 2026 season by welcoming Geelong, the runners-up from last year, on March 6.

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