David Schwarz doubles down on Dusty to Gold Coast calls, despite retirement

David Schwarz is doubling down on his call that Dustin Martin will play for Gold Coast in 2025.

Schwarz a month ago said you could “take it to the bank” that the Richmond star would join the Suns, saying “it’s done”.

Martin has since retired, calling time on his career effective immediately earlier this week.

However, the former Melbourne star is not backing down by saying it will still happen.

“I didn’t say that he wouldn’t retire. I said they would end up at the Gold Coast. We’ve got until October 31,” Schwarz told SEN’s The Captain’s Run.

“We have seen this 100 times from AFL players when they retire and then they go and find another place.

“Just sit back, hop on the banana lounge, grab a pina colada and wait and see what happens.

“By no means am I backing down from what I said. And if he doesn’t, well I’ll put my hand up and say I was wrong.

“Mal Michael, Luke Hodge, Tim Watson, the list goes on. Let’s just sit back. This is a long play.

“It’s not about Dusty retiring, it’s about Dusty going to the Gold Coast.

“He’s not going there to be a star. He’s going there for marketing reasons, coaching purposes, experience, he’s not going to go there and be Dusty from seven years ago – you know what you’re getting, star power that comes through the door and a great relationship with the coach.

“We get it wrong occasionally, but this one I am still very confident.”