Sydney Swans co-captain Maddy Collier will be sidelined for the 2023 AFLW season after rupturing her anterior cruciate ligament at training.

Collier will have surgery in the coming weeks before commencing a rehabilitation program.

Sydney Swans Executive General Manager – AFLW, Kate Mahony, said it’s a major setback for both Collier and the team.

“We are all really feeling for Maddy. Ever since she has arrived at the club, she has been such a valuable asset to our playing group and to have her miss the entire 2023 season is a really big loss,” Mahony said.

“What is more disappointing is knowing that Maddy had followed our injury risk reduction programs diligently. It was just an unfortunate incident to have occurred.

“We will do everything possible to ensure Maddy is supported during her rehabilitation and can return to playing as soon as possible.”

Collier said she is determined to put her best foot forward and help the team thrive during the club’s second season in the AFLW competition.

“It’s obviously incredibly disappointing but unfortunately it’s now one of those things I can’t control,” Collier said.

“I can’t thank the entire club enough for how supportive they have been. I know I have a long road to recovery, but I know I am in the best place possible to come back bigger and better.

“While I won’t be representing the red and white on the field, I’ll be doing everything possible to support the playing group and help them have the best season possible.”

New recruit Hayley Bullas has also sustained a partial tear to her anterior crucial ligament in a WAFLW match for Swans Districts.

Both players are expected to return for next year’s AFLW campaign.