Why Port Adelaide move was too good an opportunity for Rory Atkins to pass up

Rory Atkins couldn’t be happier after landing at Port Adelaide during the 2024 AFL Trade Period.

The 30-year-old is now at his third AFL club having played 101 games for Adelaide from 2013 to 2020 and 37 games for Gold Coast from 2021 to 2024.

Atkins originally signed a five-year deal to join the Suns in 2020, but he’ll now see out the last year of that contract at the Power after being dealt to the club alongside Jack Lukosius and Joe Richards in a trade that saw Dan Houston join Collingwood and John Noble head to Gold Coast.

While Atkins thought he’d end his career in the Sunshine State, he’s thrilled to be back in Adelaide as he gets after his first pre-season with the club in Alberton.

“It’s nuts, to think you go up there hoping that’s going to be your second club where you finish your career,” Atkins told SEN’s Sportsday.

“I originally hoped to sign on there and then go again beyond the current deal.

“But yeah, it just didn’t eventuate at the Suns and I have been given an opportunity here at Port to get after it here. 

“I’m looking forward to it and if you were to say that I was going to be back in Adelaide as well and playing for the Power, I would have told you you're dreaming.

“I couldn't be happier with how it's worked out.”

Atkins didn’t take much convincing to be thrown into the trade and head to the Power, and much of the reason why he was so willing to join Port Adelaide is because he expects the young midfield to keep the side in contention for years to come.

“You don't have to look further than the midfield that the boys have there,” Atkins said.

“Look at Jason (Horne-Francis), Connor Rozee, Zak Butters and then Ollie (Wines) pinch-hitting through there as well as well as how young they are.

“There's still a runway there, I don’t see any need for a rebuild there at all. 

“They’re just going to keep reloading here just with where those guys are placed from an age perspective and where they're at throughout their career. 

“I just found it to be too good of an opportunity to pass up.

“Hopefully I can play a role in what could be a big season for the club.”

Atkins will hope to make his Port Adelaide debut when the Power face Collingwood at the MCG on Saturday, March 15.