AFLW senior coach Scott Gowans is eager to see several of his athletes hit the field in 2024 as the Sydney Swans continue preparation for the upcoming season. With under one month until Round 1 the likes of Montana Ham and Rebecca Privitelli have impressed in the wake of injury.   

“Montana Ham will go up another level. She’s had a really good pre-season, her first one that she’s been able to complete, and it makes a massive difference,” Gowans said in an exclusive update for Premiership Club members.  

Speaking on Privitelli he said, “Bec was hampered by the injury that she got against the Gold Coast, and she had a long rehab, and it really set her back. 

“Her last three weeks have been sensational. She played match simulation last week and starred so she’s an exciting one as well.” 

04:35

Swan opens up on injury, her breakout season and being a firefighter

Bec Privitelli chats with AFL.com.au on finding her best form and how she tackled rehab outside of footy

In 2023 – the club’s second ever AFLW season – the squad enjoyed their first win and first finals series. While the upcoming season promises more exciting moments, Gowans says there is more to improve on.  

“Growth isn’t linear. We can’t expect to pick up where we left off. We got a good lesson against the Adelaide Crows, and they scouted us really well, set up to play us and really stopped our style of play,” Gowans said of last year’s semi-final.  

“We’ve got to adapt a bit more and be ready for each week now we’re a bit more of the hunted. That’s a new thing for the group, it’s just part of that journey to sustained success that you’ve got to get used to.” 

The AFLW side will play in match simulation on August 10 against the GWS Giants before a practice match on the SCG against Hawthorn on Saturday, August 17. 

In another first for the club the Sydney Swans will open the 2024 NAB AFLW season with a Round 1 clash with Collingwood.   

“We want to be a scoring team, and we want to take the game on similar to last year. Just taking that to a new level.” 

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