QBE Sydney Swans Academy graduate Caiden Cleary will make his debut for the Sydney Swans this Saturday in an exciting Round 15 clash with the GWS Giants.
Speaking to Sydney Swans Media senior coach John Longmire attributed Cleary's selection to his relentless work ethic.
"From the moment he turned up at our footy club, he's been a massive competitor and competes at a really high level all the time," Longmire said.
"He's a great runner and has played a number of different roles for us. He came into the squad as an inside-mid but he's been playing a number of different roles - he's really disciplined and it's great to see him have his opportunity."
Cleary was recruited to the senior list with pick 24 of the 2023 AFL Draft. His selection came off the back of a strong 2023 season with the VFL side, playing six games in red and white, as well as representing the Allies U18 team who went on to win the National Championships for the first time.
The exciting news arrives ahead of Sydney Derby XXVIII which will see the cross-town rivals clash at ENGIE Stadium. Not only are bragging rights on line, but crucial premiership points as we reach the tail end of the home and away season.
The last time these two sides met, the Swans managed a brilliant comeback to steal a 29-point victory at the SCG in Round 8. Despite their past success Longmire says they will need to strike the right balance.
"They've got enormous talent and they're very well coached, they're well disciplined and they play a really recognisable brand - all the things that good teams do," the coach noted.
"We've got to make sure we continue to bring what we do as well. There's always a challenge as you go into games, which is getting that balance right."
The clash comes after a momentous week at the club with 150th birthday celebrations and a new membership record of 70,740.
GWS Giants v Sydney Swans
Saturday June 22, ENGIE Stadium
4:35pm AEST
| Backs | Dane Rampe | Tom McCartin | Lewis Melican |
| Half Backs | Oliver Florent | Harry Cunningham | Nick Blakey |
| Centreline | Justin McInerney | Chad Warner | Errol Gulden |
| Half Forwards | James Jordon | Logan McDonald | Taylor Adams |
| Forwards | Tom Papley | Joel Amartey | Will Hayward |
| Followers | Brodie Grundy | Isaac Heeney | James Rowbottom |
| Interchange | Jake Lloyd | Braeden Campbell | Sam Wicks |
| Hayden McLean | Caiden Cleary | ||
| Emergency | Matt Roberts | Caleb Mitchell | Peter Ladhams |
Visit the Match Day Hub for everything you need to know ahead of Round 15.
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