The Sydney Swans AFLW side have hit the ground running in season 2023 with a historic first win at North Sydney Oval. The red and white will return this week for a massive home clash with Geelong. Assistant coach Tanya Hetherington gives us insight into Round 1 and preparations heading into another match. 

Congratulations on the Round 1 win over GWS. What are your key takeaways from the game?

It was fantastic for the girls to get their first win in the competition. To do it in a different way to what we had seen in our practice matches was also really pleasing. In both of those games we had started really well and fell away late, whereas this game we started slowly and stormed home so it's pleasing to know that the girls can win in a variety of ways. It's is a promising sign for the future. The girls can take confidence that their system works and it’s now about finding that consistency within games.

We had four AFLW debutants in Round 1. How did they handle the game?

It was fantastic to see the four players make their AFLW debuts. I thought they all stood up and had their moments which is all we ask for of them. To do that in a very high pressure game will only hold them in good stead for the future so we were very pleased with their output.

What are you hoping to improve on ahead of Round 2?

We will look to continue to execute our ball movement the way we want to play. The aim is to be able to do that for longer in games and to look to get the game on our terms earlier.

Which players should members and fans look for this Saturday?

All of them! I think members and fans will see an even team performance most weeks as we really concentrate on players playing their role in the team. A special mention this week of course would be Laura Gardiner coming up against her former side.

Laura had a great start to her Swans career in Round 1 and what better way to build on that then against her former side. So look out for the number 31 this week.

What is the message to the girl for a tough match-up against the Cats?

Scott has been really clear that he is more interested in when win number two comes around. So the message will be that it’s fantastic to get the first win under the belt, but now we reset, trust our processes and look to build on our game and get the job done against a quality opponent this weekend.

Be there to cheer on our women’s team when they take on Geelong in Round 2 this Saturday, September 9, at North Sydney Oval. Tickets start form $10 for adults, and those under 18 can redeem a free ticket from Ticketmaster. Get your tickets today.