Defender Seb Tape has extended his time at Metricon Stadium, signing a one-year contract extension with the Gold Coast SUNS.



Since rupturing the anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee in 2012, which required a full knee reconstruction, the South Australian has endured a frustrating time with his body in the last few seasons.



After playing 23 games in his first two seasons in Carrara, Tape has managed just 14 more in three years, with persistent hamstring, knee and ankle injuries preventing him from building in continuity or confidence in his body.



The 23-year-old played four senior games in 2015, along with eight appearances in the NEAFL. Despite another frustrating year, the Glenelg product expressed his gratitude for the club continuing to show faith in him.



“I’m really happy to re-sign with the club. I never wanted to go anywhere else. The club has shown a lot of faith in me, so I would love to repay that faith now,” Tape told goldcoastfc.com.au on Friday afternoon.



“I love the place and all my teammates. I can’t wait to get stuck into another pre-season and get to work for 2016.”



Tape conceded that the brutal reality of injuries and his ongoing battle with his body has been a mental challenge to cope with.



“It’s been a really tough few years with my body. The break has come at a good time to refresh, both physical and mentally,” Tape said.



“With all my body problems it has been quite mentally draining. All I want to do now is repay the faith the club has shown in me.”

The signature from Tape now means ten Gold Coast players have recommitted their futures to the club, with the medium-sized backman joining Gary Ablett, Andrew Boston, Clay Cameron, Jesse Lonergan, Trent McKenzie, Michael Rischitelli, Henry Schade, Matt Shaw and Rory Thompson in signing new deals to remain at Metricon Stadium this season.