Season 2024 will see Callum Mills lead the Sydney Swans as the club’s sole captain for the first time, following in the footsteps of Bloods legends Paul Kelly and Bob Skilton, who went before him in jumper No. 14.
Mills, a QBE Sydney Swans Academy graduate, has shared the captaincy with Dane Rampe and Luke Parker since 2022.
The 26-year-old has notched up 155 games in the red and white after being taken as the third pick overall in the 2015 draft.
He already has an impressive CV having earnt an All-Australian blazer, a Bob Skilton Medal as the Sydney Swans Club Champion, and he won the AFL Rising Star Award in his first season in 2016.
In 2022, Mills signed a contract extension with the Swans keeping him at the club until at least the end of 2029.
Sydney Swans Executive General Manager of Football – AFL, Leon Cameron, said Mills is the standout choice to lead the team into the future.
“Callum is one of the hardest working players at the club and is a natural born leader,” Cameron said.
“He is a fantastic young man and is extremely invested in the success of this football club.”
Senior coach John Longmire paid tribute to former co-captains Luke Parker and Dane Rampe.
“I want to personally thank Ramps and Parks for playing important roles as co-captains of this football club, and I and the playing group will still be leaning on them for guidance going forward,” Longmire said.
“I first met Callum when he was in the Academy and he was a standout even at that young age and had genuine leadership potential.
“We feel as though the time is right for Callum to be the sole captain and lead the group going forward.”
Mills said it’s a privilege to lead the club he loves.
“It’s an absolute honour to captain this club. I grew up as a Swans supporter and am a proud New South Welshman, so having the opportunity to lead this great club is not lost on me,” Mills said.
“I have thoroughly enjoyed co-captaining with Dane and Luke, their leadership has shaped the club to what it is today and I will still be learning from them going forward.
“I would also like to take this opportunity to say thank you to our members and commercial partners for their passion and support. I cannot wait to get back to full fitness and run out with my teammates to the roar of an SCG crowd. We have a great squad, and I’m really excited about what we can achieve this season.”
Make sure you don’t miss out on any of the action in 2024 as we celebrate our 150th birthday. Secure your seat at the SCG and become a member today.
