Star AFLW forward Rebecca Privitelli headlines a host of star players who will remain with the Sydney Swans for the 2024 season.
Joining Privitelli in putting pen to paper is Ella Heads, Tanya Kennedy, Paris McCarthy, Montana Beruldsen, Alice Mitchell, Julie O’Sullivan and Alana Woodward.
Key forward Privitelli dominated in 2023, booting 15 goals and averaging four marks per game. The 28-year-old had her season cut short when she suffered a foot injury in the Swans elimination final victory over the Suns, but has begun rehabilitation and will look to return early next year.
In her second season with the club, Heads has become a reliable and consistent member of Swans backline. The key defender earned a rising star nomination in Round 5 against Carlton, and averaged 14 disposals, 12 kicks and 5 tackles per game.
Irish trio Kennedy, McCarthy and O’Sullivan have all made seamless transitions to the AFLW from the Gaelic football system. Kennedy joined the list as an injury replacement, going on to dominate in defence averaging 13 disposals, six kicks and seven handballs per game.
Beruldsen made her debut in the 2023 season, going on to play six games, kick two goals and feature in the club’s inaugural final’s campaign.
After an ACL injury sidelined her in the club’s inaugural season, Mitchell hit the ground running in 2023 playing in 11 games for the Swans. The 22-year-old averaged seven disposals and four handballs per game.
A member of the club’s inaugural leadership group in 2022, Woodward has continued to demonstrate her importance in the red and white this year. The 33-year-old earned her first AFLW victory when the Swans beat Port Adelaide in Round 6, going on to play eight games in 2023, averaging eight disposals and five kicks.
Sydney Swans Executive General Manager – AFLW, Kate Mahony, said she was thrilled to see the group recommit to the club.
“These players all played an important part of our success this season,” said Mahony.
“2023 exceeded our expectations in many ways, and it wouldn’t be possible without the commitment from all our players to keep striving for success.
“To retain 27 players from our current playing group for the 2024 season is incredibly pleasing. It is also testament to the club’s hard work behind the scenes to ensure they feel valued.
“I look forward to seeing what this group can do next year.”
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