Tom Papley swapped his plumbing tools for a Sherrin when the Sydney Swans sprung a surprise in the 2016 Rookie Draft selection as pick 12 – and the pocket-rocket forward has since become a crucial member of coach John Longmire’s side. His breakout with the Swans saw Papley play 20 or more senior games in every one of his first four seasons in the AFL and at the end of 2019 top Sydney’s goal-kicking leader board. He played his 150th game last season and put on a record-breaking performance in Round 5 against Richmond when he kicked six goals at Adelaide Oval. Papley capped off another consistent season finishing in top 10 of the Bob Skilton Medal.
