QBE Academy members Olivia Morris and Caiden Cleary were awarded the prestigious Frank Burton scholarship this month in recognition of their skill and dedication. 

Frank Burton, a former employee of the Sydney Swans and a member for more than 30 years, left a legacy to the Foundation to continue financial support for young athletes. 

Academy Talent Director Leon Cameron praised Cleary and Morris’ commitment to training and their teammates. 

“The main thing we look for in our athletes, whether it be male or female, is a combination of character, their dedication, their ability to mix with a group and their selfless approach,” Cameron said. 

He continued, “They lead with their action which then gives young players around them a great example to follow.”

17-year-old Morris hails from the Cherrybrook region and travels an hour and a half to the Sydney Swans HQ every Monday and Wednesday to train with the Academy. There are also commitments on weekends but Morris says, "it’s so worth it”. 

“The Academy feels like a family, community. Everyone is so tied together. The coaches are awesome - they want you to be the best you can be - and the energy is the best I’ve ever trained with,” she said.

With impressive kicking accuracy and speed around the ball, Morris hopes to be drafted in the AFLW. The scholarship will assist in new boots, new gear, and flights, according to the young player. 

Cleary, also 17, has been with the Swans Academy since U10s. 

“I was really excited, honoured,” Cleary recalled.  

“I was also relieved because I do feel that I’ve been putting the work in and to have that recognised is quite cool.”

Cleary will start part-time study at the University of Technology Sydney while juggling commitments with the Academy and playing with Sydney University. 

Both Cleary and Morris have earned selection in the 2023 AFL and AFLW Academy squads, with each being eligible in the 2023 draft. 

The Frank Burton scholarship was first awarded in 2017.