Sydney defender Sam Wicks has been rewarded for his outstanding early season form, signing a three-year contract extension, while 2024 draftees Ned Bowman and Jesse Dattoli have inked one-year extensions until 2027.

Wicks will remain in the Harbour City until at least the end of 2028, after playing a pivotal role in the Swans back six so far this season.

The 25-year-old’s stellar start has coincided with a move from the forward line to defence, where he has successfully locked down some of the competition’s best forwards.

The QBE Sydney Swans Academy graduate was drafted as a Category B rookie in 2018 and has gone on to play 74 games in the red and white.

Wicks, who grew up a Swans supporter, said he is thrilled to continue his journey with the club. 

“You look at the direction the club is going, we’ve got a group of really young and exciting players and a new Head Coach in Coxy, so I think there’s some really great times ahead,” Wicks said.

“It was a bit of a no brainer to stay in Sydney, I’ve got all my friends and family here, as well as great people here at the Swans, so it was an easy decision.”

Sydney Swans Executive General Manager Football – AFL, Leon Cameron, said Wicks has become an important part of Sydney’s backline.

“We couldn’t be more impressed with the way Sam has gone about his footy this season and this extension is a great reward for all of his hard work,” Cameron said.

“His willingness to take on a new role for the team this season has been terrific, and his defensive work rate and pressure is highly valued by the team.

“We are really pleased that Sam wants to commit to the club and are looking forward to seeing him continue to develop.”

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"There's some really exciting things to come" - Wicks

Sydney Swans defender Sam Wicks speaks of his pride in re-signing with the club until at least the end of 2028.

Dattoli was the Swans first selection in last year’s draft and has been rehabilitating from a stress fracture in his back since December. Bowman, an exciting forward, was selected with pick 26 and has featured in six VFL games, averaging 10 disposals and kicking two goals.

“It’s very pleasing both Ned and Jesse have extended their contracts after only a short time in our program,” Cameron said.

“Ned has performed strongly in the VFL, while Jesse’s attitude towards his rehab and willingness to put in the hard work has been fantastic.

“They have each made strong starts to their time here and we all look forward to watching them continue to develop over the coming years.”