Sydney Swans - 2022 Club Magazine

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Sydney Swans Board

SEASON

We made the AFL Grand Final, launched our first women’s team, and we’re preparing to move into our new home at the Royal Hall of Industries.

It was the first season in three years that members were able to attend all games and they turned out in force, with two sell-out crowds at the SCG and 8,264 fans turning out for our historic first women’s

match at North Sydney Oval. We had 56,076 members join us for the journey this year, and notably, our members have embraced our women’s team, giving us the highest AFLW member tally in the competition.

While the result in the AFL Grand Final was disappointing, it was not a full stop on our journey. Yes, we fell short. However, failure is not the opposite of success, it is part of it. Our players should be proud of their efforts to make it to the AFL’s biggest stage, and we will use the experience as an opportunity to grow. Indeed, Callum Mills, Luke Parker and Dane Rampe all demonstrated why they are our

co-captains in the immediate aftermath of the loss. They fronted up, spoke from the heart and got around their teammates. Likewise, senior coach, John Longmire. I have the utmost confidence in the leaders of our club. We have a tremendously resilient and hardworking group of players and staff, and I am certain that they will return next year better for the experience. AFL football is relentless and nothing is guaranteed, although having quality people gives you a good head start.

Our women’s team has brought a new energy to our club, and we’ve watched with enthusiasm as they’ve improved each week. Led by our co-captains Brooke

AS I REFLECT ON

2022 I DO SO WITH ABSOLUTE PRIDE IN EVERYTHING OUR CLUB HAS ACHIEVED THIS YEAR.

Lochland, Lauren Szigeti and Maddy Collier, the players are to be commended for the way they have come into the club, embraced the opportunity and lived our values. While I know they would like to have had a better result on the scoreboard this season, I have absolute confidence that it will come in time, and they should all be really proud of how far they’ve come.

This year marked 40 years since our club made the move from South Melbourne to Sydney, and we have taken the opportunity to reflect on how

far we’ve come. Throughout the year we have also been hard at work on the biggest project we have undertaken since moving to Sydney – the build of our new home at the Royal Hall of Industries. Sydney Swans HQ will provide worldclass facilities for our athletes, including an indoor training field. It’s an incredible space that will enable us to deliver new community programs and it will provide us with a place to welcome members into the club on match days. We look forward to welcoming you to our new home early in the new year.

MESSAGE FROM THE

Thanks for your support across the season – I hope you’re feeling as excited as I am about the journey ahead.

Harley CEO, Sydney Swans

Tom

A

CEO |

2022 WAS FILLED WITH A MIXTURE OF EMOTIONS.

For such a young side to win 18 games for the season is a fantastic achievement but ultimately, we didn’t deliver on Grand Final day. It’s difficult enough to make a Grand Final, and although I’m proud of this club for getting there we must learn from the experience and grow from it.

Our season was filled with highlights. The night that Lance kicked his 1000th goal and the moments that came with that will stay with the club for a long time. Our close wins against Melbourne at the MCG, Fremantle in Perth and the

two sold out games against Collingwood at the SCG were unforgettable, and important learning experiences for this group.

We also saw the promising development of some of our younger players. Logan McDonald was recognised with a Rising Star nomination for his performance against Melbourne, while Chad Warner and James Rowbottom continue their rise and had some superb performances. Errol Gulden keeps developing nicely, and all the while our more established players continued to set the example, with Callum Mills and Isaac Heeney rewarded with their first All-Australian selections.

For the club as a whole, it was a historic season as we welcomed the AFLW team to the club. I want to congratulate Scott Gowans, Kate Mahony and the inaugural playing group for the work they did for the club’s first season. Building a list, staff and program from scratch in limited timeframes was no easy task. While the results didn’t go their way this season, I have no doubt success is on the horizon.

Season 2022 was also a time to farewell some of our finest clubmen.

Firstly, Josh Kennedy. Not only a champion of the club but a champion of the game. Josh leaves the Swans with

a huge legacy as a great person and brilliant footballer. He retired with the most contested possessions in AFL history, a testament to the way he played his football. We thank Josh for his remarkable service to this club and wish him and his family, Ana, Emilio and Isabella, all the best for the future.

Callum Sinclair and Colin O’Riordan also announced their retirements after 89 and 34 games for the club respectively. Callum joined us in 2016 and played 89 games while Colin left his life in Ireland in 2015 to pursue a code change from Gaelic football to Australian Rules and played 34 games for the club. Both Colin and Callum contributed on and off the field and we thank them for their service and wish them the best with their next chapter.

I also want to pay respect to two great clubmen who have sadly left us after passing away late this year. Former team manager John Payne and our hydration specialist and team song conductor Kenny Williams. John was the ultimate team man, who did any job that the club needed him to do. Not only did he do the many jobs, he did them for absolutely nothing and with a smile on his face. He was an incredibly selfless person - one who was a critical part of the furniture of our club for so long. Kenny became part of the fabric of the club and was like family to many of the players and staff over the years. His passion for the club was second to none. He was a much loved figured inside the walls of the club and with our fan base. We will miss both of them.

We now look towards 2023. It’s a great time to be part of

the club. Our focus in the off season was to retain our core group. We were thrilled after the re-signing of a big group of senior players, including Callum Mills, Isaac Heeney, Oliver Florent, Justin McInerney, Paddy and Tom McCartin, Jake Lloyd, Tom Papley, Matthew Roberts, Will Gould, Ryan Clarke, Chad and Corey Warner, Harry Cunningham, and of course, Lance Franklin.

We also added to our key position stocks. Aaron Francis from Essendon was a player that we identified and we were fortunate to facilitate a deal with Essendon to get Aaron to our club. We look forward to what he can add to our team. Finally, club-wide we are about to move into our brand-new facility across the road at the Royal Hall of Industries. This state-of-theart training, development, and

administration headquarters will make the club a better place to work and visit.

We are in a great spot, and we cannot wait to tackle the preseason with more hunger than ever before.

In a season with plenty of highs and lows, we thank all our members for your continued support and look forward to seeing you all in 2023.

Wishing you all a safe and happy festive season.

John Longmire Senior Coach, Sydney Swans.

At our first AFLW guernsey presentation in July I spoke about the honour we all had as members of the inaugural Sydney Swans AFLW team.

WE WERE TO WRITE THE FIRST CHAPTER AND SET THE TONE FOR THE STORY.

The question I posed was ‘what will the title of our story be?’. I said I hoped it was titled ‘Effort & Intensity’. And now, reflecting on our first season, I think I can say safely say that title fits perfectly.

So many observations from people I spoke to about the team’s performance in season

one included references like: “they have a go”, “they crack in”, “they don’t give up”.

Whilst the people I heard this from were speaking to the onfield efforts, these words apply to everyone involved in the club’s first AFLW season.

To get a team ready to play in the competition with just 10 weeks of preparation was one of the harder things I have had to accomplish. I remember vividly when Kate (Mahony) and I were informed about the season starting in August instead of January. It was a huge effort from everyone at the club and seven weeks later, we had 30 players and 35 staff and every person involved in the program was committed to giving it their all.

Our season was tough, but productive and a big learning curve. 19 players made their debut at AFLW level. We were determined to play everyone, which we did and in different positions as well - most players played multiple positions.

Key to our season and game plan each week were our team KPIs. We got better at these with every round. Gaining territory, time in possession, pressure, and our contest work all got better, over time. If we had of won a couple of games that went either way, our KPIs and the way we would feel and review the season would not be any different.

This year, it was almost like a free hit. We learned many things and gained much experience.

Next year, the plan is to concentrate more on winning games and really coaching the girls to win, having set KPIs around that.

We have a really good foundation to our story and have now set the tone from chapter one.

And what an amazing first chapter it was.

From our first time coming together as a team on June 13 to a welcome onto the SCG we won’t forget as the men’s team formed a guard of honour to welcome us for our first session on the SCG.

That was a special moment and the famous Bloods culture was on full display. This football club is renowned for its a culture and it’s something you feel as soon as you walk in. When I first started at the club I spent time with Brett Kirk to learn more about the Bloods culture and it’s something the women’s

program have very much felt part of and are now custodians of.

Fast forward to Round 1 and the scenes at North Sydney Oval in August for the the club’s first AFLW game, it was incredible. A crowd of over 8000 people were there to support us and it will no doubt be a memorable career highlight for many of the team. There were a few goosebumps on that day that’s for sure.

Another highlight was the recognition of our young players throughout the season with Rising Star nominees: Montana Ham, Sofia Hurley and Cynthia Hamilton, with the trio also topping the Club Champion podium. We have some exciting talent in this group and Swans fans should look forward to the years ahead.

Finally, to all those who have supported us this year. Andrew Pridham, Tom Harley and the board alongside John Longmire and Charlie Gardiner in the

men’s program, thank you for welcoming us to this club, your support and leadership.

And to our members. We can’t thank you enough. To have the most amount of AFLW members in our first season, and holding that record before we had even played a game was an incredible stat. We had fantastic support at our games in Sydney and in Melbourne and Adelaide. The team can feel the support at the games and through social media and appreciate it greatly.

While we didn’t get the results on the scoreboard this season, I urge our members and fans to stick with us. Keep the faith, enjoy the journey, stay curious and be passionate and committed to constant sustainable improvement.

See you in 2023 for chapter two.

Scott Gowans AFLW Senior Coach

2022 SEASON REVIEW

ROUND 1 v GWS Giants, Accor Stadium

17.10 112

13.14 92

GOALS

Parker 5, Heeney, Florent 3, McLean 2

DISPOSALS

Heeney 25, Blakey 22, Parker, Mills 21

The Swans opened the 2022 season with a Sydney Derby win at Homebush. While all eyes were on Lance Franklin with five goals needed to get to 1000, it was co-captain Luke Parker who stole the show. Parker kicked five goals and gathered 21 disposals in a best on ground effort which saw him win his fourth Brett Kirk Medal. Young stars Ollie Florent and Isaac Heeney also started the season well as the Swans produced an electric second half which saw them come from behind and kick eight goals to three to secure a 20-point victory.

ROUND 2 v Geelong, SCG

17.5 107

10.17 77

GOALS

Heeney 5, Franklin 4, Hayward 3

DISPOSALS

Mills 29, Lloyd 27, Warner 25

A night that will go down in the history as one of the great moments of the game as a soldout SCG witnessed Lance Franklin kick his 1000th goal. The stage was set as Franklin needed four goals to reach the milestone as the Swans faced the Cats in Friday night football.

He kicked his first goal with thirty seconds remaining in the first quarter and his second and third (number 999) came late in the third quarter. From there on, all those at the SCG and those watching on television sets across the world were on Buddy watch. As the Swans opened up a 32-point lead, with six minutes remaining in the game, Chad Warner burst through the midfield and found his target.

With fans on the fence, ready to hit the SCG (some already on the turf before the ball had hit Franklin’s boot), Buddy kicked his 1000th goal and became just the sixth man in the history of the game to do this.

After a 36-minute delay in clearing the ground with the swarm of fans who celebrated the occasion, play resumed and the Swans celebrated a famous night at the SCG with a five goal victory. Alongside the man of the night, Callum Mills was dominant across the midfield with 29 disposals and Isaac Heeney kicked five goals.

ROUND 3 v Western Bulldogs, Marvel Stadium

9.17 71

9.6 60

GOALS

Hayward, Franklin 2

DISPOSALS

Lloyd 29, Blakey 25, Parker 22

Sydney’s Swans first trip on the road for the season saw them face the 2021 Grand Finalists in Thursday night football. The Swans struggled in the first half, kicking just one goal and were lucky to still be in the contest as an inaccurate Bulldogs kicked 4.10 to the main break.

It was a more energised Sydney that came out after half time however, kicking eight goals to five in the second half which saw them come within five points in the final term. However the Dogs hung on in a thriller with Marcus Bontempelli kicking the sealer with 20 seconds to play. Will Hayward and Lance Franklin kicked two goals each, Jake Lloyd worked hard down back with 29 disposals and Nick Blakey was lively with 25 disposals in the Swans’ first loss of season 2022.

ROUND 4 v North Melbourne, SCG

13.8 86

12.3 75

GOALS

Heeney, McLean, Franklin, Bell 2

DISPOSALS

McInerney 30, Mills 28, Lloyd 28

The Swans fought off a spirited Kangaroos outfit when they returned to the SCG for Round 4. Sydney had a big scare when the visitors led by 14 points in the final term but the Swans were able to claw their way back and kick the last four goals of the game to claim the points. Justin McInerney was the spark the Swans needed in the final term, he had 14 fourthquarter touches and and kicked a clutch goal to put Sydney in front. He finished with 30 disposals and seven clearances. Isaac Heeney, who kicked the sealer, was also instrumental in the final term, while Callum Mills continued to lead from the front with 28 disposals.

ROUND 5 v West Coast Eagles, Optus Stadium

18.13 121

9.4 58

GOALS

Heeney 3, Warner, Parker, McLean, Hayward, McDonald 2

DISPOSALS

Mills 28, Gulden 27, Parker 26

From the first bounce the Swans’ intentions for their trip to Perth were clear. In a first half blitz, Sydney kicked the first eight goals before the Eagles had even hit the scoreboard in a dominant display. The performance was led by co-captains Callum Mills (28 disposals, six clearances) and Luke Parker (26 disposals and two goals) as well as Errol Gulden (27 disposals). Young duo Logan McDonald and Hayden McLean were also important in setting the tone early with two goals each. West Coast managed to stem the flow of goals in the third quarter with Sydney kicking just one goal, however the Swans put their foot down again in the final term, adding a further seven goals. Isaac Heeney also finished with three goals as Sydney recorded a comprehensive victory on the road.

ROUND 6 v Hawthorn, UTAS Stadium

10.8 68

16.13 109

GOALS

Franklin, Ronke 3, Warner 2

DISPOSALS

Mills 37, Parker, 29, Warner 24

Sydney travelled to Launceston to face the Hawks on ANZAC Day and produced a stunning come-from-behind victory. The Swans conceded the first 32 points but finished the game with a blistering nine goal quarter to record their fifth victory of the season. Sydney came to life towards the back end of the third quarter and back-to-back goals reduced the final term deficit to just nine points. Lance Franklin, who finished with 3.4, then got the Swans ahead in the final term with Ben Ronke and Ollie Florent also getting involved in a huge final term. Once again, Callum Mills was dominant, topping the disposals with 37.

ROUND 7 v Brisbane, SCG

13.11 89

17.11 113

GOALS

Franklin 6, Heeney 3, Gulden 2

DISPOSALS

Parker 33, Mills 30, Warner, Lloyd 24

It was a rollercoaster of a game as the Swans returned to the SCG to face an in-form Lions outfit. After an even and low scoring first quarter with both teams managing 1.3, the Lions dominated the second quarter kicking six goals to one to take a 33-point lead into the break. It was then a Buddy blitz as the Swans superstar kicked four of his six goals in ten minutes in the early stages of the third term to bring the Swans back into the contest before the Lions responded to extend their lead again. Despite the best efforts of Luke Parker (33 disposals) and Callum Mills (30 disposals) and Isaac Heeney (3 goals) the Lions proved too good to record their first win at the SCG since 2009.

ROUND 8 v Gold Coast, SCG

8.13 61

10.15 75

GOALS

Franklin, Parker, Papley, McInerney, Kennedy, McLean, Warner, McDonald

DISPOSALS

Lloyd 26, Blakey 25, Mills 20

It was back-to-back losses for the Swans at the SCG as the Gold Coast Suns defeated Sydney by 14 points. It was a low scoring affair and the Swans shared their goals between eight individual goalkickers. The home side were unable to produce any final quarter comeback, kicking just two behinds in the final term to the Suns’ 2.4 as Gold Coast handed the Swans a second loss in as many weeks.

ROUND 9 v Essendon, SCG

14.21 105

6.11 47

GOALS

Wicks, Papley, Hayward, Franklin 2

DISPOSALS

Warner 32, Mills 29, Gulden, Blakey 26

After two disappointing performances the Swans bounced back in style against the Bombers at the SCG recording a comprehensive 58-point victory. The Swans kicked nine first half goals to set the game up and then added a further five in the second half, while restricting the Bombers to just two. Callum Mills had a stellar game with 29 disposals, a game high seven clearances and 13 tackles whilst excitement machines Tom Papley (21 disposals, two goals and a game high 13 score involvements) and Chad Warner (32 disposals and 11 score involvements) were also instrumental in the win which saw Sydney return to the top four.

ROUND 10 v Carlton, Marvel Stadium

15.12 102

13.9 87

GOALS

Papley, McDonald 3, Franklin, Hayward 2

DISPOSALS

Parker 26, Heeney 24, Mills, Gulden 23

The Swans headed to Melbourne for Friday night football against an in-form Carlton team. The Blues were fast out of the blocks and jumped to a six-goal lead in the second quarter but the Swans kept coming to stay in the contest, kicking five goals to two to reduce the margin to 17 points at the final change. Sydney continued to press in the final term, getting within eight points but the Blues hung on in an entertaining clash. Tom Papley and Logan McDonald kicked three goals each, while Luke Parker topped the disposals with 26.

ROUND 11 v Richmond, SCG

16.10 106

15.10 100

GOALS

Franklin 5, Reid 3, Hayward 2

DISPOSALS

Warner 27, Parker, Lloyd 26

It was a Friday night classic at the SCG as the Swans overcame a 33-point deficit to defeat the Tigers by six points in Marn Grook at the SCG. Lance Franklin starred with five goals and was instrumental in the comeback to claim the Goodes-O’Loughlin Medal. Chad Warner was crucial in the middle of the ground, Sam Reid kicked important goals and the Swans backline of Rampe, McCartin and Lloyd all put in solid performances as the Swans recorded a memorable victory.

ROUND 12 v Melbourne, MCG

9.7 61

10.13 73

GOALS

McDonald, Reid 3, Papley 2

DISPOSALS

Mills 26, Lloyd 22, Warner, Heeney 19

In a contender for match of the season, both teams threw everything they had at each other in two hours of non-stop action and entertainment but it was the Swans who stood up when it mattered, kicking four goals to one in the final term to claim a 12-point victory and make a big statement. Sam Reid’s experience shone with three goals and Logan McDonald also kicked three including an important final quarter snap while fellow young Swan Errol Gulden withstood the big game, big moment pressure to kick a long-range goal to give the Swans the lead. Tom Papley then iced the cake with the sealer as the Swans claimed a twogoal win.

ROUND 14 v Port Adelaide, Adelaide Oval

12.10 82

8.11 59

GOALS

Heeney 4

DISPOSALS

Mills 27, Parker 26, Warner 20

After the bye round, a six-goal third quarter Power blitz stunned the Swans at Adelaide Oval in Round 14. The Swans kicked the first three goals of the game and looked primed for a good day out in Adelaide but the home side clawed their way back to take a lead into the main change and then piled on six goals in 17 minutes to set their win up. Isaac Heeney was the best of the Swans with four goals, including two in the final term and had nine score involvements whilst Callum Mills and Luke Parker worked tirelessly in the midfield but it wasn’t enough as the Power claimed a 23-point win.

ROUND 15 v St Kilda, SCG

12.11 83

4.8 32

GOALS

Heeney 3, Papley, Clarke 2

DISPOSALS

Lloyd 32, Blakey 31, Florent 27

Sydney bounced back in emphatic fashion against the Saints in Pride Game at the SCG recording a 51-point win. The Swans were inaccurate early but still led by 16 points at the main break and put their foot down in the second half to kick eight goals to two. Ruckman Tom Hickey was instrumental, having 22 disposals, seven clearances and 15 contested possessions while Jake Lloyd produced a stellar display down back with a season-high 39 disposals and 478m gained. Nick Blakey had his best game of the year with 31 disposals and Ollie Florent was also a spark with 27 disposals. Isaac Heeney kicked three majors while Tom Papley and Ryan Clarke kicked two each as the Swans recorded an important victory.

ROUND 16 v Essendon, MCG

15.5 95

12.14 86

GOALS

Warner, Reid 3, Heeney, Franklin 2

DISPOSALS

Parker 26, Warner 25, Gulden 23

Essendon flipped the script in Round 16, upsetting the Swans by 11 points at the MCG in Luke Parker’s 250th game. The Swans had previously recorded a big win over the Bombers in Round 9 but Essendon turned the tables this time. After a strong start, leading by 26 points in the second quarter, the Swans stumbled in a see-sawing affair. An inaccurate third quarter cost Sydney, kicking eight behinds before Isaac Heeney finally converted to put the Swans back in front at three quarter time. The Bombers kept coming in the final term however with Jake Stringer kicking two goals at the death to give his side the victory.

ROUND 17 v Western Bulldogs, SCG

17.18 120

9.13 67

GOALS

Heeney 4, Warner, Papley, Franklin, Amartey 2

DISPOSALS

Parker 28, Lloyd 27, Warner 25

Sydney needed to respond after the loss the week prior, and that they did. A stunning seven goal first quarter, the club’s best first quarter since 2018, savaged the Bulldogs as the Swans ran out 53-point winners. Isaac Heeney and Joel Amartey kicked two goals each, Chad Warner ran amok, and Tom Papley was everywhere in the opening term blitz. Papley finished with 24 disposals and kicked 2 goals, while Isaac Heeney finished with four goals and Luke Parker had 28 disposals as Sydney’s high pressure performance shut down the Bulldogs.

ROUND 18 v Fremantle, Optus Stadium

9.11 66

11.16 82

GOALS

Papley, Gulden, Amartey

DISPOSALS

Warner 35, Mills 26, Lloyd 25

Sydney recorded an important win on the road against an in-form Fremantle in Round 18 to return to the top four. It was a gruelling, armwrestle from first bounce and the Swans found themselves 23 points down in the first half but patiently worked their way back to kick five of the last six goals of the game to record a memorable victory. Chad Warner was best on ground, with a career-best 35 disposals, seven clearances, six inside 50s and a goal. Classy small forwards Errol Gulden and Tom Papley kicked two important goals each, with Gulden’s clutch goal from a tight angle one for the highlights reel as the Swans headed back to the east coast with the points.

ROUND

19 v Adelaide Crows, SCG

17.16 118

12.13 85

GOALS

Franklin, Hayward 3, Papley, Heeney 2

DISPOSALS

Parker 29, Mills 27, Rowbottom, Blakey 26

The Swans set the tone early with a rampaging first quarter on Swans Red Day for Redkite, kicking the first five goals of the game and finished the first quarter with 9.3 from just 20 inside 50s to record their highest opening quarter of the year. Callum Mills kicked the Swans’ 10th goal in the first minute of the second quarter to extend their lead but the Crows continued to fight hard and pegged the margin back. However the damage was done early and the Swans did enough in the second half to claim a 33-point victory. Lance Franklin and Will Hayward kicked three goals each while Isaac Heeney and Tom Papley booted two as the usual suspects Parker (29 disposals) and Mills (27 disposals) dominated the midfield. Young stars James Rowbottom and Nick Blakey also got plenty of the football with 26 disposals each.

ROUND 20 v GWS Giants, SCG

17.10 112

5.9 39

GOALS

Reid, Heeney, Franklin 3, Papley, Gulden 2

DISPOSALS

Parker 34, Gulden 33, Mills, Lloyd 27

The Swans had a memorable Sydney Derby victory in Round 20, thumping their cross-town rivals by 73 points to move into the top four. In a dominant performance, the Swans at one stage kicked nine unanswered goals in the comprehensive victory. Luke Parker proved once again his love for a Sydney Derby contest, the Swans co-captain claiming his third consecutive and fifth overall Brett Kirk Medal after his performance of 34 disposals, six tackles and six clearances. Errol Gulden was close to best on ground honours too, starring with 33 disposals and two goals.

ROUND 21 v North Melbourne, Marvel Stadium

13.10 88

18.18 126

GOALS

Franklin 4, Papley, Warner 3, McDonald, Heeney, Reid 2

DISPOSALS

Parker 29, Mills 23, Rowbottom 22

The Swans boosted their hopes of a double chance after a 38-point victory over the Kangaroos in Round 21. North Melbourne took it up to the Swans who were looking for their fifth win in-a-row but Sydney’s class and skill proved superior. Although wasteful early in front of goal, Sydney’s big guns found their groove with Lance Franklin booting four goals, Tom Papley and Chad Warner kicking three and McDonald, Heeney and Reid all contributing two. Luke Parker continued where he left off the week before, topping the disposals with 29.

ROUND 22 v Collingwood, SCG

11.11 77

7.8 50

GOALS

Franklin 4, Heeney, Papley 2

DISPOSALS

Mills 29, Parker 26, Warner 25

The stage was set for an epic encounter at a sold-out SCG. The Swans celebrated 40 years in Sydney and hosted Collingwood, with the game crucial to the top-four chances of both teams. The ‘Pies came to Sydney in red-hot form, winning the last eleven matches, whilst the Swans had won the last five. In a finals-like game, the Swans led at every change by small margins but with Collingwood the comeback kings of season 2022, it wasn’t until late in the final term where Swans fans felt comfortable. Lance Franklin kicked three goals and Isaac Heeney two in his 150th game while Callum Mills was once again sensational in the midfield. However it was a Dane Rampe’s final quarter run-down bump that had the crowd on its feet, denying Brodie Mihocek a certain goal and shutting the door on a possible Collingwood comeback in a moment that will be replayed time and time again and epitomised everything about the Bloods.

ROUND 23 v St Kilda, Marvel Stadium

11.8 74

13.10 88

GOALS

Hayward 3, McDonald, Heeney, Franklin 2

DISPOSALS

Rowbottom, Lloyd 24, Heeney 23

The Swans secured the double chance with a hard-fought victory over St Kilda in the final round of the regular season. For much of the game, the Swans looked in control however a four-goal final term from St Kilda made things interesting as a spirited Saints side got within seven points to make Swans fans very nervous right until the final siren. Two important final quarter goals to Will Hayward, including one on the run with three minutes to play, sealed the win and the third place finish for the Swans. The match was also the final game for former Premiership Swan, Dan Hannebery, who was chaired off the ground by former teammate Josh Kennedy to applause from Swans and Saints fans alike.

2022 FINALS

QF2 v Melbourne, MCG

10.9 69

14.7 91

GOALS

Reid, Papley, Lloyd, Hayward 2

DISPOSALS

Parker 25, Lloyd 25, Rowbottom, 24, Mills 23

Sydney

14.11 95

14.10 94

GOALS

Papley 3, Franklin 2 DISPOSALS

Mills 27, Parker 23, Warner

earn a place in their first Preliminary Final since 2016. Playing a tough, uncompromising brand of football, their fast and skilful game stood up against the Demons in a true finals footy contest. Melbourne looked dangerous when they kicked three goals in the first five minutes of the third quarter. However Sydney weathered the storm and momentum slowly swung the Swans way. The goals came through different avenues with Jake Lloyd kicking his first goal of the season right when it mattered, two set shots from Sam Reid and ruckman Tom Hickey also hitting the scoreboard.

first week of finals

Tom Papley was crucial in the victory with two goals and 15 disposals while Luke Parker (25 disposals, nine clearances, eleven tackles and one goal), James Rowbottom (24 disposals, one goal) and Callum Mills (23 disposals, eleven tackles and one goal) excelled in the midfield as the Swans earned a week off and a home Preliminary Final.

It was a Preliminary Final for the ages as the Swans held off a Collingwood comeback in front of 45,608 people at the SCG. The Swans came out of the blocks fast kicking the first four goals of the match, with a six goal to three opening term setting up the first half, taking a 30-point lead into half time. When Logan McDonald kicked the opening goal of the second half and Sydney held a 36-point lead, a place at the last Saturday in September looked a sure thing. However, Collingwood, who had won nine games by single digits in season 2022 did not give in and just kept coming. In a thrilling and tense final two minutes, the Swans desperately hung on and when the final siren sounded, there was pandemonium at the SCG as the Swans secured a place in the 2022 Grand Final.

took down the reigning premiers at the MCG in the

to

FINALS FOOTY

GOALS

Warner 2

20.13 133

8.4 52

Sydney

DISPOSALS

Warner 29, Fox 26, Parker 23

why they were the

and consistent team across the season. A six-goal to one first quarter had the Swans on the back foot early and despite a more even second quarter with three goals each, the Swans didn’t look the side they had been in previous weeks to get them to the Grand Final. The Cats pressure and intent at the contest was reflected on the scoreboard as they piled on another six goals in the premiership quarter to stamp their authority and run away with the game. Chad Warner gave his everything with 29 disposals and two goals, while Robbie Fox (26 disposals) and Luke Parker (23 disposals) also worked tirelessly but Geelong were too dominant, recording a comprehensive Grand Final victory.

GRAND FINAL v Geelong, MCG

faced minor premiers Geelong in the 2022 Grand Final and the Cats flexed their claws from the opening bounce and showed

dominant

Phil Hillyard, one of Australia’s best professional sports photographers, has covered over 30 seasons of AFL and captured countless iconic sports moments behind the lens. Here’s some of his best pics from Season 2022.

Lance Franklin celebrates kicking his 1000th goal as fans rush to him on the SCG.

A leaping Lizard! Nick Blakey soars high in the Round 21 game against Collingwood at the SCG.

The Sydney Swans AFLW team gather at Barangaroo. Barangaroo was named after a powerful and determined Indigenous woman who was a leader in her community and provided the perfect backdrop for our inaugural team’s photo.

A portrait of Luke Parker ahead of his 250th game.

A night to remember. Lance Franklin is congratulated by teammates in the Swans rooms after kicking his 1000th goal.

Up close with Isaac Heeney.

SIREN! The Swans celebrate a win for the ages, a one-point victory over Collingwood in the Preliminary Final at the SCG.

Don’t mess with Montana! Number one draft pick Montana Ham in action in Round 1 against the Saints at North Sydney Oval.

The Swans have landed! The AFLW Leadership group: Maddy Collier, Brooke Lochland, Alana Woodward, Rebecca Privitelli, Lisa Steane and Lauren Szigeti pictured at Dudley Page Reserve.

Swans co-captains Lauren Szigeti, Maddy Collier and Brooke Lochland at Henson Park where the team played two fixtures in 2022.

First Happens Once. An historic day as the AFLW team enter North Sydney Oval for their first game in the AFL Women’s competition.

The Swans men’s team welcomes the women’s team onto the SCG for the first time.

Proud Ningy Ningy woman Aliesha Newman, and Palawa woman Jaide Anthony pictured ahead of the AFLW team’s first Marn Grook at the SCG.

A sensational season for Chad Warner, who celebrates a goal with Tom Papley.

Swans fans celebrate a goal at the Preliminary Final.

Young Bloods. Dylan Stephens, Justin McInerney, James Rowbottom, Chad Warner and Errol Gulden pictured on the SCG in Grand Final week.

Is there a better goal celebrator in the league?

Josh Kennedy with wife Ana and children Isabella and Emilio after the Swans great announced his retirement.

Family man. Tom Hickey pictured with his three children.

Cygnets waving to their idols at the Grand Final parade.

Errol Gulden giving away his boots to some lucky fans during Grand Final week open training.

A proud Robbie Fox fan at the Grand Final parade shows off some creativity!

Tom Hickey, with son Lou and Dane Rampe lapping up the Grand Final parade.

It’s more than a game,

As Premier Partner of the Sydney Swans and Official Match Day Partner of the annual pride game, HSBC is proud to work with the Sydney Swans as we both strive to be leaders in the community.

it’s a bond that unites us.

More properties for sale than anywhere else.

The Swans first trip on the road on Father’s Day saw another two players making their AFLW debuts. In a special moment pregame Kate Reynolds and Sarah Ford were presented their guernseys by their fathers. The Swans came out of the blocks fast, kicking two goals in the first quarter to take a lead into the first break but from there on it was all Collingwood who flexed their muscles in a dominant second half to record a 31-point win.

More firsts in Round 3 with the team’s first Marn Grook match as part of the AFLW’s Indigenous Round, the first AFLW game on the SCG and the first AFLW Sydney Derby. Eliza Vale and Tiarne Cavanagh made their debuts and a healthy crowd gathered at the SCG, but it was the Swans’ cross town rivals who got the points. The Giants were dominant across the park, showing their experience in the competition to record a 47-point win.

ROUND 1 v St Kilda, North Sydney Oval

4.3 27

8.8 56

GOALS

C.Hamilton, Lochland, Privitelli, Skinner

DISPOSALS

Eastman 15, Steane 14, Tarrant 13

It was a historic day on Saturday August 27 as the Sydney Swans played their first game in the AFL Women’s competition. A record crowd for AFLW in NSW of 8264 witnessed the momentous occasion with red and white filling the stands and the hill at North Sydney Oval. Despite a good start, as Rebecca Privitelli etched her name in the history books as the team’s first goal kicker, the Saints showed their experience with a 29-point victory.

ROUND 4 v Port Adelaide, Alberton Oval

10.8 68

0.0 2

GOALS

DISPOSALS

Ham 20, Dargan 12, Heads 12

It was a tough afternoon at Alberton as the Swans took on Port Adelaide on their home deck. The Swans were on the back foot early, down by three goals in the first quarter with the home side dealing best with the cold, wet and blustery conditions. They managed to stop the scoring in the second quarter but Port Adelaide ran away with the game in the second half, kicking seven unanswered goals to record a comprehensive victory. The return of Montana Ham from a knee injury was the only shining light for the Swans, the 18-year old recording 20 disposals, 15 tackles and was nominated for the AFLW’s Rising Star award on the back of this performance.

ROUND 5 v Hawthorn, Punt Road Oval

4.7 31

5.5 35

GOALS

Lochland 3, Privitelli

DISPOSALS

C.Hamilton 19, Lochland 17, Ham 14

Round 5 saw a home game in Melbourne on Grand Final Eve against fellow expansion side, Hawthorn as co-captain Maddy Collier made her first appearance for the Swans. The signs were good early with Sydney coming out of the blocks fast, kicking the first four goals of the game, Brooke Lochland on fire with three first quarter goals. It was then an arm wrestle as the Hawks gradually clawed their way back into the game to take a lead into the third quarter. In a heartbreaking finish, the Hawks hung onto their lead and the Swans were left to reflect on one of their better performances of the season to date, however a 4-point loss.

ROUND 6 v Kangaroos, Punt Road

9.13 67

0.0 1

DISPOSALS

Heads 16, Ham 14, Hurley 14, Smith 14

Two more Swans made their debuts in the fixture against the Kangaroos, with QBE Academy athletes Ruby SargantWilson and Kiara Beasley presented their first AFLW guernseys.

It was a tough day out for the Swans against one of the top teams in the competition who dominated from start to finish.

ROUND 7 v Gold Coast Suns, Henson Park

2.3 15

7.7 49

GOALS

Privitelli 2

DISPOSALS

Ham 16, Skinner 12, Steane 11

The Swans played their first game at Henson Park in Round 7 and once again a healthy home crowd turned out to cheer on the team. Despite a wet second half. Bec Privitelli (2 goals), Montana Ham (16 disposals), Sofia Hurley (10 tackles) and Lisa Steane did their best to keep the Swans in the contest and despite the 34-point loss there were plenty of positive signs for the young Sydney outfit. The Swans showed the improvement in their contested game.

ROUND 8 v Essendon, IKON Park 7.6 48

7.2 44

GOALS

Dargan, Hamilton, Hurley 2, Hurrel 1

DISPOSALS

L.Hamilton 17, Sheppard 15, Szigeti 13

The Swans faced another expansion side, Essendon in Round 8’s Pride Game and put in their best performance of the season, kicking their highest score of the year. Sarah Dargan, Sofia Hurley and Cynthia Hamilton kicked two goals each and debutant Zoe Hurrell also kicked a goal with her first touch. The Swans put in another strong contested game, bringing plenty of pressure. Trailing by 10 points at three-quarter-time, Sydney found hard in the final quarter but it was Essendon that held on for a four-point win.

ROUND 9 v Fremantle, Henson Park

4.4 28

6.6 42

GOALS

Ham, Hurley, Lochland, Privitelli

DISPOSALS

Hurley 15, Smith 14, Sheppard 14

ROUND

It was a tight tussle at Henson Park in Round 9 as the Swans faced the Dockers with assistant coach Baker Denneman filling in for an unwell Scott Gowans. The Swans matched the Dockers for the majority of the match with young stars Sofia Hurley and Montana Ham doing all they could to get the Swans over the line, Ham kicking her first AFLW goal in the match. Bella Smith, Brooke Lochland and Paige Sheppard fought hard but the Dockers kicked the crucial final quarter goal to dash the Swans hopes of a win, Fremantle victorious by 14 points. Hurley was rewarded for her performance with the club’s second AFLW Rising Star nomination.

10

v Geelong, GMHBA Stadium

15.12 102

4.3 27

GOALS

Dargan, Lochland, Morphett, Privitelli

DISPOSALS

C.Hamilton 19, Smith 15, Heads 13

The Swans finished their season against an in-form Geelong side eyeing finals. The Cats kicked five first quarter goals to put Sydney on the back foot from the get-go and were dominant across the ground. The Swans were able to stem the flow of goals in the final quarter, kicing two goals to the Cats 2.3, but the damage had been done early. Young Swan Cynthia Hamilton had a strong performance as she moved into the midfield, with 19 disposals that earned her a AFLW Rising Star nomination, the club’s third nomination for 2022.

Friday March 25, 2022.

It will forever be one of those nights in Australian sport where you knew where you were when Lance Franklin kicked his 1000th goal – a feat we are not likely to see again in our great game in this modern era.

After kicking one goal in Round 1 against the Giants, the stage was set for ‘the greatest showman’ as the Swans hosted Geelong under Friday night lights at the SCG.

The sell-out crowd had to wait for Franklin’s first goal of the night, it didn’t come until the final seconds of the first quarter, but when it did the crowd erupted like he had just kicked a match winner. Three to go.

Goalless in the second quarter, Franklin kicked number 998 after being awarded a free kick half-way through the third term. Luke Parker then hit him on the chest with two minutes to play in the third and Franklin went back and launched from 50 metres, curling the ball as only he can, to send the crowd into raptures. That was 999.

The final quarter then became Buddy watch and with six minutes remaining in the game, Chad Warner burst through the midfield and found his target. This was the moment.

The Sherrin had not yet made contact with Franklin’s famous left boot but the crowd had already started to creep onto the SCG. Once contact was made, it was always going to

go one way, straight through the middle. There it was, goal 1000. Lance Franklin, just the sixth person in the history of the game to achieve the feat.

Within seconds, Franklin and his teammates were swamped in incredible scenes that any sport in the world would envy.

THE SCG WAS A SEA OF FANS, STREAMING ONTO THE GROUND TO BE PART OF A PIECE OF HISTORY.

As ‘Hero’ by the Foo Fighters blared across the speakers of the SCG, Franklin lapped up the moment for half an hour as the crowd lifted him up and moved him across the SCG. He eventually made his way to the Paul Kelly Race, back to teammates to continue the celebrations, before resetting to finish the match.

Everyone who was present at the SCG for the historic event had their own memory from the evening. From Ollie Florent and Chad Warner re-entering the ground via Driver Ave, to Dane Rampe having a picnic on the ground to coach John Longmire entering teacher mode and doing a headcount of his players before the game restarted.

It truly was a remarkable night that will be etched in the Australian sport history books and in the minds of all who witnessed forever.

2022 marked 40 years since the club relocated from South Melbourne to the Harbour City.

It was 28 March 1982 when the Sydney Swans played their first game as a permanent SCG tenant.

The Sydney Swans defeated Melbourne in front of 15,764 fans.

40 years later, in Round 22, 2022 a sold-out crowd packed into the SCG to see Sydney defeat Collingwood in what was a celebration of 40 years in Sydney.

Sydney Swans champion

Josh Kennedy called time on his decorated career this season, announcing his retirement from football in August.

The 2012 Premiership player and former Sydney Swans captain hung up the boots after 16 seasons at the highest level. He departs the game as a three-time All Australian, three-time Sydney Swans Club Champion and sixth on Sydney’s all-time games list.  The 34-year-old told teammates privately before announcing the news to the wider public in an emotional media conference with coach John Longmire.

“I’m eternally grateful to the football club, the players past and present, the support staff that make the club great from the board level down, and of course all the fans and supporters over the journey who have supported me and the team and made me feel

very special to belong to such a great club,” Kennedy said.

“I want to take the opportunity to thank everyone at the club. The overarching sentiment I want to leave is one of gratitude - I am grateful to Alistair Clarkson and Hawthorn for the opportunity, and to the Sydney Swans for believing in me.”

Drafted as a father-son selection by Hawthorn in 2006, Kennedy was traded to the Harbour City as a 21-year-old and made his debut for the Swans in 2010.

Over his 13 years in red and white Kennedy’s many individual accolades include being captain of the club for four seasons (2017-2020), two Brett Kirk Medals for best on ground in the Sydney Derby and finishing third overall in the 2014 and 2017 Brownlow Medal counts.

Known for his work rate and contested ball, Kennedy

thrived in the big games, winning the Gary Ayres Award in 2016 for best finals player.

He finished his career with the highest number of contested possessions in the history of the AFL, and second in all-time clearances.

Sydney Swans coach John Longmire paid tribute to Kennedy, describing him as the ultimate big-game player.

“I just want to thank Josh for what he has contributed to this place over the past 13 years. He’s been a significant contributor for such a long period of time.

“One of the things we said to the players was you probably don’t understand how much of a champion has been running beside you at training, preparing in the gym and sitting next to you in meetings, because he’s so humble. That’s just who he is,” Longmire said.

Kennedy wasn’t the only Swan to retire in 2022, with ruckman Callum Sinclair and defender Colin O’Riordan also calling time on their careers.

After a 10-year AFL career across two clubs, 32-year-old Sinclair retired after 89 senior games with the Swans, and 29 with the West Coast Eagles.

He was a rookie selection with West Coast in 2012, before making his AFL debut in 2013,

going to play in the 2015 Grand Final. He landed at the Swans ahead of the 2016 season via a trade for Lewis Jetta.

O’Riordan retires having played 34 games at the highest level. The 26-year-old Irish international moved his life to Australia to give his all to an Australian Rules career and has given everything to the red and white since arriving in the country. Unfortunately a chronic hip injury was the

catalyst for the decision to retire.

O’Riordan was signed as a rookie with the Swans in 2015 when playing Gaelic football for Tipperary, before making his AFL debut three years later in Round 17 of the 2018 season against North Melbourne.

Sydney Swans co-captain Callum Mills capped off a tremendous season, winning his first Bob Skilton Medal as the Sydney Swans Club Champion for 2022.

It was a trio of youngsters who headed the votes with Mills (662 votes) finishing ahead of Chad Warner (606 votes) who claimed the Adam Goodes Trophy for second place, and James Rowbottom (544 votes) to win the Peter Bedford Trophy.

Mills, a QBE Sydney Swans Academy product, didn’t miss a game this season, averaging 25 disposals and six tackles per game, and was also rewarded for his fantastic season with his first All Australian selection. Presented with the award at the Club Champion Dinner

in September, Mills said he was honoured to win the Bob Skilton medal and reflected on his time at the club so far.

“Ever since I came to this football club I have fallen in love with this place, to win this award is very humbling,” Mills said.

“I am really proud to be part of this club. The support the red and white army has shown us the last few years has been incredible.”

Mills also reflected on the 2022 season, which was a rollercoaster of emotions, riding the highs of some big wins and a second Grand Final berth but ultimately falling short.

“Being so close and at the final stage is something we are really keen to get back to and really show what we’re about.”

Mills has now played 135 games in the red and white, after debuting in Round 1 of the 2016 season against Collingwood.

“I THINK THE WHOLEHEARTED

EMOTION IS JUST BEING PROUD, IT’S BEEN A LONG JOURNEY, BUT OUR JOURNEY DOESN’T END HERE, THERE’S A LOT AHEAD OF US AND WE ARE EXCITED ABOUT THE FUTURE,”

The North Shore native also signed a six year contract extension during the finals campaign, keeping him at the Swans until at least the end of 2029.

“I love this group. I love coming in every day and trying to get better together. Just how tight this group is, is incredible and that’s one thing I’m really keen to nurture and keep going forward,” Mills said.

Runner up in the 2022 Club champion and the recipeient of the Adam Goodes Trophy, Chad Warner went to another level in 2022.

The 21-year old averaged 23 disposals per game and earned selection in the AllAustralian squad of 40. Warner went head-to-head with some of the game’s best midfielders throughout the year and is an exciting part of the young Swans group.

Meanwhile, James Rowbottom, who claimed the Peter Bedford Trophy for third place, had a stellar season in his fourth year at the club averaging seven tackles per match, thriving in the emerging Sydney engine room.

HAMILTON CROWNED FIRST SYDNEY SWANS AFLW CLUB CHAMPION

At just 18 years of age, Sydney Swans midfield/ forward Cynthia Hamilton has capped off a whirlwind debut season to claim the inaugural Sydney Swans AFLW Club Champion award.

In positive signs for the future of the Swans, it was a trio of teenagers who dominated the count with Hamilton (81 votes), finishing ahead of fellow first year players and Rising Star nominees Montana Ham (71 votes) and Sofia Hurley (62 votes).

Hamilton was a consistent performer for the Swans in her debut season of AFLW after being drafted to the Swans from the Queanbeyan Tigers with pick 11 in the 2022 AFLW Draft.

The former NSW/ACT and All-Australian junior had 19 disposals in two games this season (Round 4 v Hawthorn and Round 10 v Geelong) and kicked two goals in the Swans narrow loss to Essendon in Round 6. She averaged 2.7 clearances, 3.2 tackles and 10.9 disposals and consistently showcased her ability to win the football and bring others into the game through her energy at the contest.

Hamilton’s standout game was in the final round of the season

against Geelong which earned her a nomination for the AFLW Rising Star Award.

Number one draft pick Montana Ham finished RunnerUp (71 votes) with the 18-year old polling well despite missing three games.

Ham, who looked at home at the top level, averaged 14 disposals and lit up the Sydney midfield in her seven games with her athleticism, football smarts and ability to break the contest. Her best game came in the Swans loss to Port Adelaide, where she had 20 disposals and earned an AFLW Rising Star nomination.

Ham’s impact on the playing group was recognised with the teenager also winning

the Players’ Player Award. Ham’s achievements in her first season were even more impressive given she completed Year 12 in Melbourne during the season.

Rounding out the top three was another young star, Sofia Hurley who polled 62 votes to finish in third place.

Hurley was drafted to the Swans with pick five in the 2022 AFLW Draft and shone in her debut season, particularly in the back end of the season.

Her games against Essendon (12 disposals, 2 goals) and Fremantle (15 disposals, 1 goal) were particularly impressive with the latter earning her a AFLW Rising Star nomination.

Top 10 Votes:

Cynthia Hamilton 81 Montana Ham 71

Sofia Hurley 62

Brooke Lochland 42 Ella Heads 38

Lauren Szigeti 33

Molly Eastman 31

Paige Sheppard 31

Lisa Steane 30 Bella Smith 27

Voting: The Sydney Swans four AFLW coaches vote 5,4,3,2,1 at the completion of each game. The maximum amount of votes a player can receive each game is 20 votes.

PAUL KELLY PLAYER’S PLAYER: CHAD WARNER

A popular member among the team, Warner’s performance in 2022 was outstanding, voted by his teammates as the Paul Kelly Player’s Player. He sets very high standards for himself and is emerging as a key part of the Swans young on-ball brigade.

BARRY ROUND BEST CLUBMAN AWARD: WILL HAYWARD

A selfless player who does everything with a team first attitude. Hayward kicked a career high 34 goals in 2022 but his defensive running and tackling were also highlights. The popular forward is becoming a very important cog in the Swans’ forward line.

DENNIS CARROL AWARD, MOST IMPROVED: CHAD WARNER

Another award for the muchimproved Warner who goes from strength to strength. In just his 3rd season at the Sydney Swans, Warner played 24 games in 2022 with his consistency and explosiveness in the contest key pillars of his game. He also managed almost a goal a game, adding some attacking flair to his impressive season.

RISING STAR AWARD: LOGAN MCDONALD

Young key forward Logan McDonald won Sydney’s Rising Star Award after a breakout season in which he managed 17 games and 15 goals. McDonald earned an AFL Rising Star nomination after his dominant three goal and 16 disposal game against Melbourne in Round 12. The 20-year-old was the fourth pick overall in the 2020 NAB AFL National Draft and will strive for consistency in 2023.

VFL PLAYER OF THE YEAR: WILL GOULD

In his third year at the club, Gould dominated in defence for the VFL side this season, playing in 20 games as a key pillar in the Swan’s back six. The strongly built defender is yet to make his AFL debut but will be pushing for a berth in the senior side in 2023.

VFL DEVELOPMENT SQUAD PLAYER OF THE YEAR: HARRY MORRISON

Harry was consistent with his performances in 2022 and the midfielder is developing into a quality player at VFL level.

AFLW AWARDS

PLAYERS’ PLAYER: MONTANA HAM

Montana Ham showed why she was the number one draft pick, impressing on the field in her seven games, all the while completing her year 12 studies in Melbourne. Her impact on the playing group was recognised with this award.

BEST CLUB PERSON AWARD: ALANA WOODWARD

The 32-year old leadership group member’s experience on and off the field has been incredibly valued to the young Swans group this season. A kind, caring and personable team player, Alana has lived the team and club’s values and has been a highly valued member of the group in the team’s inaugural season.

THERE WERE SOME SIGNIFICANT PLAYER MILESTONES IN SEASON 2022.

AFL Luke Parker 250 games

Dane Rampe 200 games

Jake Lloyd 200 games

Isaac Heeney 150

Lance Franklin 150

Sydney Swans games

Oliver Florent 100 games

Will Hayward 100 games

AFLW

Lisa Steane 25 games (Sydney and GWS Giants)

Brenna Tarrant 25 games (Sydney and Melbourne)

It was a busy and exciting year for the QBE Sydney Swans Academy on the back of two seasons impacted by the pandemic.

As the game and talent across the state continues to grow, the importance of the QBE Sydney Swans Academy program was in full flight with close to 600 athletes representing the red and white across New South Wales in eight locations: Sydney City, Sydney North, Sydney South, Northern Beaches, Illawarra, Central Coast, Hunter and the North Coast (including Coffs Harbour and Port Macquarie).

Alongside a full training calendar for all age groups, 2022 observed a noticeable improvement in the skill level and game knowledge in the Academy Cup games for the Youth Girls program and an increase in Academy Cup games for the Youth Boys program and an increase in Academy Cup games for the

Youth Boys program. 2022 started with the Summer Series for the women which showcased the best female talent in NSW/ACT and this continued into a Winter Series for our Futures (U16) and Open (U18-U20) teams who played at North Sydney Oval against GWS, Northern Territory and Tasmania. There was also a second match up against cross-town rivals, GWS in Canberra.

QBE Sydney Swans Academy athletes, Ruby SargantWilson, Kiara Beesley and Ella Heads recorded a little piece of history, becoming the first Academy athletes in the Sydney Swans AFLW team. All three made their debuts in the inaugural season and Academy coaches Bron Gulden, Nick Davis and Baker Denneman were also part of the AFLW coaching team.

The Top End Boys teams had a very strong start to their season playing against the

most talented U18 AFL players in the country. The season provided plenty of learning and development opportunities. Several players also got a taste of the next level, playing for the Swans VFL team and Will Edwards was rewarded for his efforts drafted to the club as a Category B rookie in November.

The club was also represented in the 2023 NAB AFL Academy and 2023 NAB AFLW Academy squads with Caiden Cleary, Lachlan Cabor, Olivia Morris and Marnie Robinson selected amongst the most talented 17-year-old footballers across the country.

Another highlight of the Academy season was the Super 24s Academy Series in Albury in September. The club took eight teams (four Youth Boys and four Youth Girls) to the state based carnival which saw the best players in both the Swans and GIANTS academies compete. The

Murray Bushrangers and Riverenia representative teams also featured in the games against our U16 teams.

The teams had some fantastic results and the games provided plenty of learning opportunities for players and coaches alike. The carnival enabled the Academy to highlight key fundamental and development areas that will underpin the 2023 Youth Boys and Girls programs and it also allowed players to see where the competition in NSW is at and what they need to do to improve their game.

This year has also seen a lot of change and the club farewelled former Head of Academy, Chris Smith. Chris was instrumental in the growth and success of the Academy since inception. His commitment to providing opportunities for aspiring young AFL players in NSW, has seen the Academy become one of the pre-eminent AFL talent pathway programs in Australia and a centrepiece of the club’s operations.  We thank Chris for his significant contribution to the Club and wish him well for the future.

As a new chapter begins, we welcome Leon Cameron as Coaching Director of the QBE Sydney Swans Academy. Leon

brings a wealth of coaching experience to the role, after 193 games at the helm of GWS, where he guided the team to the finals five times, including the 2019 AFL Grand Final.

Prior to his role at the GIANTS, he spent nine seasons as an assistant coach at Hawthorn and the Western Bulldogs and was part of the coaching team that led the Hawks to the 2012 AFL Grand Final against the Sydney Swans.

Alongside Leon, the Academy welcomes Mark McVeigh as Head Coach of the U18 male team and AFLW co-captain Brooke Lochland who will guide the next generation of female talent as an Assistant Academy Coach. We’re excited to have a fantastic group of people and coaches leading the next generation of talent.

Looking ahead to 2023 and there is plenty to look forward to, including moving into the new facility, something our staff and athletes will get great benefit from. The Academy program will also add significant female football content, there will be more Investment in player welfare and management, dedicated female and male coaching teams to the Top End Academy Programs and investment in coaching

developing to improve community level AFL through to our Academy as well as more quality Top End program games to be played interstate.

Alongside these, 2023 will see the introduction of the First Nations Academy program, which has recently begun state-wide trials. This will be a sporting program designed to not only increase the participation and involvement of First Nations People across the whole of game (playing, coaching, strength and conditioning and administration) but also to identify those with the physical capabilities and character to become a high-performing athlete.

The ten-week program will be holistic in its design, incorporating mental health and cultural education sessions with strategically planned technical and tactical training led by experienced staff. The program will provide a culturally safe and inclusive environment, fostering a greater sense of belonging and connection to AFL and the broader Sydney Swans family.

It’s an exciting time for the QBE Sydney Swans Academy and we are looking forward to a bigger and better 2023!

IN 2023, WE WILL OFFICIALLY OPEN OUR EXTRAORDINARY NEW HOME, SYDNEY SWANS HQ, AT THE ROYAL HALL OF INDUSTRIES.

Located just a drop punt away from the SCG, the club’s new home will be a game changer.

Community is at the heart of the project and Sydney Swans HQ will allow the club to welcome and engage with our people like never before.

Every day, including matchday, Sydney Swans HQ will be a

meeting place for players, members, partners, and all of the Swans community. Visitors will be able to buy a guernsey in our retail outlet, learn about the club’s rich history in the museum, and see all the activity taking place on the unique indoor training field at the heart of the building.

As well as being home to our elite men’s and women’s teams, it will provide a worldclass training facility for the hundreds of young players engaged in the QBE Sydney Swans Academy.

Adam Goodes and Michael O’Loughlin’s GO Foundation, Red Cross Lifeblood, and the Clontarf Foundation, will be based at Sydney Swans HQ, strengthening the connection between club and community.

In addition, the adjoining international standard basketball and multi-purpose court will provide a muchneeded facility for the local area and will be available for community use. Our partners Hoops Capital, owners of the Sydney Kings and Flames, will utilise the court as a showpiece in Sydney’s east.

Sydney Swans HQ is truly unique. It is our most significant undertaking since moving to Sydney 40 years ago and it will ensure we have every chance to succeed on and off the field for the next 40 years and beyond.

The Sydney Swans Foundation have led the capital raising campaign to bring this historic project to life. Sydney Swans HQ would not have been possible without the generous support of the Foundation’s donors, the Commonwealth Government, the New South Wales Government and the AFL. We thank and appreciate all who have contributed so far to the campaign.

As the project nears completion, the Sydney Swans Foundation is seeking support to reach its fundraising target.

There are a number of ways you can support the project, including locker and auditorium seat sponsorship.

To donate or explore the opportunities to support the Sydney Swans HQ fundraising effort, visit sydneyswansfoundation.org.au.

Our vision is only made possible thanks to your support.

Origin, proud partner of the Sydney Swans.

COMMITMENT TO DIVERSITY

As part of the club’s commitment to be better tomorrow than today we launched a new Diversity Action Plan (DAP) in October 2022. The DAP is a roadmap of commitments aimed at strengthening our club and our connection to community through genuine advocacy.

Our new DAP builds on the commitments made in 2017, when Sydney became the first AFL club to commit to a diversity action plan.

The key pillars of the DAP – disability empowerment, LGBTIQA+ pride, multicultural inclusion and the advancement of women – remain unchanged. However, to deliver on new initiatives the Swans have partnered with several community organisations. These include:

Down Syndrome NSW, Twenty10, Symmetra and Addi Road

Sydney Swans CEO Tom Harley said the club strives to be a place where everyone feels welcome and included.

commitments to guide us on that path,” Harley said.

“Some of the commitments contained in our 2017 diversity action plan included establishing a youth girls’ program as part of our QBE Sydney Swans Academy, implementing paid parental leave, and making the Pride Game a permanent fixture request – our club has been richer for those initiatives.

“Whether it’s providing a flexible workplace or ensuring our matches are welcoming and accessible, we want to be better tomorrow than today, so the DAP sets out a range of

“We’ve also learned a great deal over the journey, which led to us seeking likeminded organisations who can offer guidance to help us maximise our impact. We’re proud to be working with Down Syndrome NSW, Twenty10, Symmetra and Addi Road, and look forward to sharing the journey ahead with them.”

“ONE OF OUR CLUB’S CORE VALUES IS RESPECT AND THAT UNDERPINS EVERYTHING WE DO.”

REDKITE

The Sydney Swans have been on Redkite’s team for 22 years, supporting children and families affected by childhood cancer through our annual Swans Red Day.  After two years of virtual support due to the pandemic, Swans Red Day returned to the SCG in 2022.

Redkite children and their families formed a guard of honour for the Round 19 match against Adelaide at the SCG and over $36,000 was raised through donations.

Some eye-catching artwork by Redkite families also featured as part of the day. Children drew some creative portraits of players which were features on the big screen at the game and on Sydney’s social media pages. The artworks were very well received by players and fans alike.

LITTLE ISAAC, BIG SMILES

Swans fan Isaac Bate was diagnosed with Burkitt Lymphoma in 2021. After completing six months of intensive chemotherapy treatment and months in isolation due to contracting Covid he is now in remission. Redkite have been supporting Isaac and his family and they visited the club as part of Swans Red Day. He got to meet some of his favourite players including his namesake Isaac Heeney (his name selection was influenced by the families love for the Swans!). Isaac’s favourite player is Tom Papley and much to his delight he got to enjoy a kick with both Tom and Isaac Heeney on Lakeside Oval.

CUNNINGHAM NAMED FINALIST FOR JIM STYNES AWARD

Sydney Swans defender Harry Cunningham was named as one of four finalists for the 2022 Jim Stynes Community Leadership Award for the work he does with Redkite.

For more than nine years, Harry has shown unwavering community leadership in his position as Redkite Ambassador. Each year, he has used his public profile to galvanise support for Redkite, both with the Swans’ fanbase and broader football community.

Harry has consistently visited the children’s cancer ward at Sydney Children’s Hospital across this time. His warm and sincere personality makes him a favourite among both parents and children as he works with Redkite’s Music Therapist at patients’ bedsides. When the pandemic hit, despite the challenges the club and players faced, Harry’s first question was “how can we continue to support Redkite kids and families?” As hospital visits were forbidden, Harry continued his visits virtually and encouraged other players to participate.

Through his involvement, Harry has helped to alleviate the constant stress facing families on the cancer ward, providing distraction and joy while creating long lasting memories. Harry is a role model to other players and continues to inspire younger players to get involved, generating essential funding, and making a huge difference to childhood cancer awareness in Sydney and across Australia.

Proud partner of the Sydney Swans

Supporting athletes to achieve on and off the field

JACOB KONSTANTY

COOPER VICKERY

CALEB MITCHELL

Pick 20, AFL Draft

CLUB: Gippsland Power/Vic Country

DOB: 9/11/2004

HEIGHT: 177cm WEIGHT: 73Kg

POSITION: Forward

Regarded as one of the best defensive forwards in this year's draft class and a player with a strong footy IQ, Konstanty made a seamless transition from the midfield in 2022 and he flourished as a small forward. Konstanty finished the NAB League season ranked second for tackles (81), impressing with his relentless work-rate and tackle pressure inside 50. Representing Vic Country at the National Championships, his three-goal performance against the Allies showed that alongside his pressure acts, he likes to hit the scoreboard too.

Pick 27, AFL Draft

CLUB: Gippsland Power

DOB: 16/12/2004

HEIGHT: 181cm WEIGHT: 73Kg POSITION: Defender/Wing

A versatile defender who is able to play on the wing, Vickery arrives at the Swans having enjoyed a consistent NAB League season and impressive display at the National Championships. He averaged 17.3 disposals for Gippsland and reached double-figure possessions in every game bar one.  He also has an elite ability to rebound off halfback using his speed which allows him to get on the outside. Vickery may be light bodied but he has also proven to win contested footy. Averaging 16.8 disposals, as well as 3.5 marks and 3.5 rebound 50s for Vic Country.

Pick 40, AFL Draft.

CLUB: Murray Bushrangers DOB: 10/08/2004 HEIGHT: 186cm WEIGHT: 80Kg POSITION: Midfield

Well respected for his twoway running, the dynamic wingman enjoyed a stellar 2022 season for the Murray Bushrangers that saw him play 10 games in the NAB League. Arguably his best performance came against Gippsland (the club of fellow 2022 draftees Jacob Konstanty and Cooper Vickery) where he amassed 31 disposals and two goals. His performances earned him selection for Vic Country in the National Championships, which saw his big frame and hardrunning catch the eye of many.

The Sydney Swans have welcomed a handful of new draftees after the 2022 AFL Draft in November and have also welcomed Aaron Francis who joined the club in the 2022 AFL Trade period.

CAMERON OWEN

JAIDEN MAGOR

WILL EDWARDS

Pick 17 Rookie Draft

CLUB: Tasmania Devils

DOB: 28/5/2004

HEIGHT: 203cm WEIGHT: 94Kg POSITION: Ruck/Forward

Ruck-forward Cameron Owen has been picked as a longterm draft prospect. The 203cm Tasmanian had a solid season for the Devils in the NAB League and impressed at the draft combine. His strengths are the ability to impact games in the ruck or up forward and will look to use the expertise of Dean Cox and Tom Hickey to hone his craft after selection on the Swans list via the Rookie Draft.

Pick 31 Rookie Draft

CLUB: South Adelaide

DOB: 16/2/2004 HEIGHT: 185cm WEIGHT: 79Kg POSITION: Forward/midfield

South Adelaide’s Jaiden Magor is a dynamic forward/ midfielder capable of impacting the scoreboard in attack and winning his own ball with power through the middle. Magor entered draft calculations towards the backend of last season after he booted two bags of four goals for South Adelaide’s U18’s He lined up for SA in their opening National Championship match against the Allies and kicked two firsthalf goals, but unfortunately suffered an ankle injury which kept him sidelined for two months. Magor returned for Rounds 17 and 18 with the Panthers and didn’t disappoint, kicking five goals against the Bulldogs and backing it up with six majors against WoodvilleWest Torrens to showcase his match-winning capabilities in attack.

Category B Rookie

CLUB: QBE Sydney Swans Academy/North Shore

DOB: 8/5/2003

HEIGHT: 197cm WEIGHT: 100Kg POSITION: Defender

A product of the QBE Sydney Swans Academy and North Shore Bombers, Will Edwards will continue his development in the red and white after his selection on the senior list as Category B Rookie. Season 2022 saw Edwards selected in the Allies and he also played four VFL games for the Swans.  A developing key position player who thrives in one-on-one contests, Edwards offers an exciting point of difference in his explosive athleticism. This was best showcased at the state draft combine, where Edwards notched a rapid 20m sprint time of 2.876 seconds.

AARON FRANCIS

DEPARTURES

LEWIS TAYLOR 2020-2022 12 games

CLUB: Essendon

DOB: 10/08/1997

HEIGHT: 193cm WEIGHT: 92kg POSITION: Defender

Aaron Francis joined Sydney from Essendon on the final day of the 2022 AFL Trade Period. Originally from West Adelaide, Francis was taken at pick 6 overall in the 2015 National Draft. He played 54 games for the Bombers. Francis enjoyed a career best season in 2019 where he played in 17 games, averaging 14 disposals and 5 marks. The previous season he earnt a rising star nomination after his performance against Richmond in Round 22. The 25-year-old will provide the Swans with versatility in being able to play in both defence and attack.

BARRY O’CONNOR 2019-2022

SAM NAISMITH 2014-2022 30 games

JAMES BELL 2019-2022 30 games

BEN RONKE 2018-2022 44 games

In 2022 we said goodbye to several members of our Sydney Swans family. Their passion, contribution and legacy for the football club will be forever remembered.

John Payne - Life member and long-time team manager

Jim Main – Life member, Sydney Swans historian

Kenny Williams- Life member, Sydney Swans number one fan and hydration specialist

Glenn Wheatley - Sydney Swans true believer

Alan Davidson - Sydney Swans ambassador

Bernie Jeffrey- former South Melbourne player

Noel McMahen-  former South Melbourne coach

Brian Tomlinson- former South Melbourne player

Jan Courtin - Sydney Swans writer

Billy Picken - former Sydney Swans player

John Payne:

“He was the ultimate team man, who did any job that the club needed him to do. Not only did he do the many jobs, he did them for absolutely nothing and with a smile on his face. He was an incredibly selfless person - one who was a critical part of the furniture of our club for so long.”

- John Longmire, Senior Coach

Jim Main:

“We called upon Jim as Club historian and passionate supporter to write the book ‘In the Blood’. Only Jim’s passion could have achieved such a brilliant compilation of the seasons, champions and accolades across the history of the Swans.

The book is given to all new players at the Club’s annual Guernsey Presentation ceremony to ensure that they are familiar with the history of our Club, one of the cornerstones of the Bloods culture.”

Richard Colless, former Chairman of the Sydney Swans.

–

FAREWELL KENNY

Kenny Williams was not only our most passionate and recognisable supporter. He was family.

Kenny spent much of his early life living in Port Melbourne, just a short walk from Lake Oval, home of the South Melbourne Football Club before moving to Sydney.

Kenny, along with wife Yvonne became a permanent fixture behind the goals at the Paddington end of the SCG.

He rarely missed a training session, referring to himself as a “hydration specialist” ever since the day Ron Barassi asked him to run water when they were short of staff one time.

He became a constant in the lives of players and staff past and present. The longstanding tradition of young players at the Club, away from their homes and families, being regularly treated to Yvonne’s magnificent baked dinners as they were welcomed into the Williams family, began in the 1980s and continued for decades.

It was Rodney Eade who first invited Kenny into the rooms to sing the song with the boys after a victory. His rousing renditions of “Cheer, Cheer” will live long in our memories. Never has a team song been belted out with such gusto as by Kenny, in the middle of a circle of exhausted and elated footballers, after the 2005 and

2012 Grand Finals.

Perhaps the only time he was happier than those Grand Final days was the night in 2002 when he and Yvonne were made Life Members of the football club which had meant so much to them, and to which they had made such an enormous contribution.

Kenny loved the Swans and we loved him. Rest in peace Kenny. How fortunate we were to have you in our lives.

Isn’t it time you SUVW?

There are some things you can’t understand until you experience them for yourself. Like the first bite of your game day pie or the sound of 35,000 Swans fans yelling “BALL!” And the Volkswagen SUV Range is no different. It’s only once you experience the intuitive IQ.DRIVE tech of an SUVW for yourself, like Park Assist * and Travel Assist *, do you truly wish you discovered one sooner.

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