Season 2025 is set to be a special one for Tom Hanily and Ben Paton with the pair set to pull on the red and white for the first time and make their Swans debut in Opening Round this Friday against Hawthorn.
19-year old Hanily was taken by Sydney in last year’s mid-season rookie draft with pick 14 from Gippsland Power. He played eight games for the Swans’ VFL side last season.
Paton, 26, has already played at AFL level having arrived in the Harbour City via the 2024 rookie draft and previously playing 71 games for St Kilda.
Senior Coach Dean Cox told the pair the good news after training on Wednesday evening at the SCG.
Hanily said it’s a dream come true to be making his debut in Opening Round.
“The feeling is just as good as draft night. To have the opportunity to run out at the SCG in front of the Bloods faithful with this bunch of boys is something I’m really looking forward to,” Hanily said.
“In the pre-season I did my quad, so I thought this moment was a bit further away. To be here now is terrific.”
Paton said he has loved his time at the Swans so far and is excited for his first game with the club.
“I’m very proud to be playing for the Club, I was overwhelmed, it’s such a great honour and a reward for effort,” Paton said.
“It’s a very tight group and to get the support from the boys was really nice and makes you feel really welcome.
“Playing in front of a full house is always exciting and it will be awesome to do it at the SCG so I’m really looking forward to it.”
The Swans will host Hawthorn at the SCG tomorrow night (Friday, March 7). View the Match Day Hub for all the key and important game day information.
