The Sydney Swans have informed Lauren Szigeti, Lisa Steane, Aimee Whelan, Paige Sheppard and Eliza Vale they will not be offered new contracts with the club for the 2025 AFLW season.

All five were foundation players, having been part of the Sydney Swans AFLW program since the club was granted a license into the competition in 2022.

Szigeti, a renowned leader, joined the Swans in 2022 as co-captain and went on to play 20 games in the red and white over her three seasons at the club.

Steane also arrived at the Sydney Swans in 2022 from cross-town rivals GWS and played 27 games for the Swans and 46 AFLW games in total, averaging 10 disposals a game across her career.

Sheppard played three seasons for the Swans AFLW team, running out in the red and white on 19 occasions, including the historic first win at North Sydney Oval.

Whelan also joined the Swans from Williamstown in Melbourne. She represented the red and white on 16 occasions, averaging just under 10 disposals a game.

Vale joined Sydney from the Western Bulldogs VFLW side and debuted in 2022 against the Giants. She went on to play eight games for the Swans.

Sydney Swans AFLW Senior Coach – Scott Gowans, wished all five players the very best.

“As always, this time of the football season is extremely difficult and unfortunately tough decisions have to be made,” Gowans said.

“Lauren, Lisa and Aimee in particular have shown exceptional leadership since arriving at the Swans and they have also been great contributors on the field, demonstrating their hard work and drive to make the team better day in day out.

“Paige and Eliza have also been excellent contributors to our program since they arrived in Sydney, forming excellent bonds with the rest of playing group.

“On behalf of everyone in the AFLW program and the wider club, I wish all players the very best for their futures.”