As the roller coaster 2023 season comes to an end, Coach John Longmire is reflecting on the season that was for the Sydney Swans.
Beginning the season with a long list of injuries, the Swans still managed to claw their way into a third consecutive finals series. Although this year’s finals journey was cut short, Longmire expressed his pride in the efforts of the team.
“I’m very proud of how the players fought back from the bottom four,” Longmire said.
“It was a fantastic achievement to make the top eight”.
This season recognised the amazing achievements of multiple players and Coach Longmire himself.
In June, the veteran coach celebrated his 300th game in charge with a tight 2-point win over the Western Bulldogs at the SCG.
Other milestones were celebrated within the club, with multiple players reaching personal milestones. Tom Papley and Callum Mills both notched up 150 games, and Errol Gulden earnt his first All-Australian selection with an outstanding personal season.
“The growth of some of our younger players has certainly been pleasing,” Longmire said about the development of the young side.
The Swans also bid farewell to three great club men, Lance Franklin, Tom Hickey, and Paddy McCartin.
Longmire wished them all the best in their retirement and thanked them for their contribution to the club over the years.
The growth of the club has also reached a new club high. A record breaking 65,332 members was recorded at the end of the season. Swans have also been named as the most supported club in AFL, with over 1.3 million devoted fans.
Longmire expresses his gratitude for the loyal members and fans.
“I personally thank all of you for your loyal support. We are so lucky to have such a wonderful fan base.
“See you back in the preseason, cheering on the red and the white”.