If Sydney Swan Paddy McCartin gets through this week’s main training session he’ll be making his debut in red and white.
Speaking at today’s media press conference ahead of Sydney Derby XXIII, coach John Longmire confirmed the 25-year-old is poised to run out in the club’s season opener against GWS at Accor Stadium on March 19.
"It's a great story and once again it's about the team, but you take a step back for a second and realise some of the challenges Paddy's gone through and to get himself to the point of playing his first AFL game for quite a few years this weekend is pretty special for him," Longmire said.
"He's playing a big role down back. He's still getting used to that and learning the game from that perspective, but it's a great story for him to get back and play.
"We're not just playing him because it's a good story. We're playing him because we believe he can help us win."
The former number one draft pick signed on with the club as a delisted free agent in the pre-season selection window after delivering strong performances for Sydney’s East Coast VFL side in 2021.
Prior to joining Sydney, Paddy McCartin spent five seasons at St Kilda where he was selected with the number one draft pick in 2014, however was restricted to just 35 games due to injury. McCartin last played at AFL level in round 16, 2018.
Don’t miss Sydney Derby XXIII at Accor Stadium on March 19 from 5:10pm. Click here to get your tickets now.
When the Sydney Swans and GWS take to the field for this weekend’s Sydney Derby there will be more than the four points on the line, with the teams to contest The Lifeline Cup. Read more.
