Errol Gulden has admitted it’s been a long pre-season. With three weeks until Opening Night the midfielder – and the squad – are restless. But as preparations continue on the track, it’s the work off it that’s proof of the side’s potential.

At just 21 the All-Australian has earned the right to speak up at training. But chatting to SEN Sportsday he says a culture has been fostered to let anyone have a say. 

“It doesn’t matter who you are on what your experience is, if you have something that will benefit the team, you say it,” Gulden noted.

“It’s respected by everyone.”

Contested footy has been a key focus for the squad off the back of last year. A hoard of new recruits, including Brodie Grundy, Taylor Adams, James Jordon and Joel Hamling has assisted in pushing the team forward.

“It’s a key indicator for success and if you look across the competition, year in year out the top four sides are generally the top four contested footy.

“It’s where the game is won and lost in finals,” he added.

Adams is one player to inject his knowledge into a new-look Swans side. The 200-gamer joined the red and white during the 2023 AFL Trade Period and according to Gulden, was quick to make an impact this pre-season.

“He’s so knowledgeable,” Gulden shared.

“He’s been around the block now and playing in some successful teams and he’s bringing little golden nuggets of wisdom to the team.”

Gulden was also eager to see Grundy hit the SCG for the first time, a leader for up-and-coming rucks. The former Melbourne ruck is set to face his old side on March 7 in the side’s season opener.

“Hopefully we’ll have the big fella wearing number four in the ruck will definitely make a massive difference for us.”

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