Former Sydney Swans defender Colin O'Riordan will make a welcome return to the red and white as he assists the AFLW program in the absence of coach Scott Gowans, who has undergone surgery for prostate cancer. 

O'Riordan, who retired at the end of the 2022 season due to a hip injury, played 34 games for the club since his AFL debut in 2018.

Forging successful careers in AFL and Gaelic Football respectively, O'Riordan says he is eager to pass on the knowledge from his professional career to a promising AFLW playing squad.

"I think there's a few subtle little things that you will pass on. I think the biggest thing I learned is that everyone will hold your hand and help you out, but no one is going to tell you what to do, and how to do it," O'Riordan said.

"If I can pass on one message to the girls, it's to drive your own career and you can steer it in any way you want to. If you put the hard work in and put your head down, you will reach whatever goal you want to reach."

O'Riordan was also quick to laud the Swans for the role they played throughout his playing career, and is using the opportunity to help the AFLW program as a way of giving back to the Bloods.

"It's very exciting to be back and be involved (again) with the Swans. I make no secret of what the place means to me (and will be) helping the girls out as much as I can," he said.

"It's nice to be able to come in and help out, and hopefully pass on some knowledge I have from the game."

While the girls finished their inaugural season in the AFLW competition without a win, there is plenty of promise building as they venture into their second campaign.

The playing group have a sheer determination to improve, and O'Riordan says the excitement is evident in the way they have committed to training early in the year.

"I think that's the biggest thing - the youth and excitement within in the group. They have been awesome since I have been here (coaching)," he said.

"Last year they didn't record a win, but hopefully they can build on last season - which was a really competitive competition. I'm really excited to be part of the program and can go somewhere this year."

While O'Riordan has no coaching experience, the 27-year-old says he may look to his former mentor for some advice.

"Horse (John Longmire) has been an incredible coach for me and my only coach since I've been in Australia, so I might even lean in and get some advice from him from time to time."