The Gold Coast SUNS have today released Timmy Sumner from his playing contract after the 20-year-old informed the club of his desire to cease his AFL career.

Sumner and the GC SUNS had been working closely in a bid to revive the South Australian's hunger to train and play at the elite level, however after being granted personal leave earlier in the month, Sumner notified club officials of his decision this week.

Following a meeting with Timmy, his management and the AFLPA in Adelaide on Friday, GC SUNS General Manager – Football Operations, Marcus Ashcroft, said that while relinquishing Sumner from the senior list was a setback, the club remained committed to working with Timmy to assist him in adjusting to life away from AFL.

“We completely understand Timmy’s position, and have been working with him and his manager for some time assisting where we could off the field in a bid to reignite his passion for AFL.

“Although disappointed to lose Timmy, we will assist him in his transition to life away from the Gold Coast SUNS and wish him every success in the future,” Ashcroft said.

Sumner was recruited to the Gold Coast at the 2012 NAB AFL Draft. A third round selection, number 55 overall, Sumner made his debut against Geelong at Simonds Stadium in Round 10, 2013 and played a total of 17 games for the SUNS, kicking six goals.