QBE Sydney Swans Academy athletes Kaiden McNamara and Molly Thomas have been named recipients of the 2025 Frank Burton scholarship. Awarded annually it aims to recognise male and female footballers who excel on and off the field.
Frank Burton, a former employee of the Sydney Swans and a member for more than 30 years, left a legacy to the Sydney Swans Foundation to continue financial support for young athletes.
McNamara joined the Academy through the U15 Talent Assessment program in 2022, before making an immediate impact with his selection in the Super 24 Series. Hailing from the Central Coast hub and playing locally for the Terrigal Avoca Panthers, the defender has proven to be versatile and reliable through his progression in the Academy.
Speaking to Sydney Swans Media, McNamara said the scholarship will assist with the long commute as well as equipment.
“I travel from the Central Coast an hour and a half twice a week so [the scholarship] will definitely help with fuel,” he shared.
“And then hopefully some kicking (equipment) and some other facilities that I can use to broaden my knowledge of the game.”
In 2024, McNamara was selected for the U17 NSW Futures team to play against Vic Country, showcasing his commitment and resilience by competing while managing an achilles tendon injury. This year, Kaiden was invited to train with our senior squad during the first week of pre-season in January - an acknowledgment of his maturity, consistency, and growth as a player.
“It means the absolute world to me. [The scholarship] is a massive honour and I'm very proud to represent the Swans in the best way I can.
“It's good to get some credit from them and knowing I have their support, which I absolutely love.”
Meanwhile, Thomas has been a member of the Academy for four years and is currently a member of the Top-End Program consisting of the best Under 18 AFLW talent in New South Wales. A testament to her developing talent, Thomas played every game during the 2024 season. Her selection for the 2025 AFL Allies pre-camp signifies her rising status.
Thomas says the financial assistance will allow her to focus on her education while also striving for the AFLW Draft come November.
“[The scholarship] allows me to slow down my studies without the stress of the financial barriers and enables me to fully engage in my education,” she told Sydney Swans Media.
“It also serves a reminder that my hard work and perseverance are awarded and recognised. With this support, I'll continue striving towards my AFLW goal, ensuring that I can make a meaningful impact on the field and give back to those who have supported me along the way.”
Molly’s journey as an athlete is particularly remarkable considering her commitment to travel from Singleton. She is also revered for her strong left kick and outstanding endurance.
“I’ve been with the Academy since I was 13 after I played in the Paul Kelly Cup and won that.
“My Mum took me to an Academy trial in Sydney, I got in the team, and it has deepened my passion for the game.”
Previous recipients of the scholarship include Joel Cochran, Ellie Veerhuis, Caiden Cleary, Olivia Morris and Angus Anderson. Both Cochran and Cleary went on to be drafted to Collingwood in 2024 and the Swans in 2023 respectively, while Olivia Morris made her VFLW debut with the Casey Demons last season.
The Sydney Swans Foundation are proud to provide funding to nurturing the pipeline of young athletes coming through the QBE Sydney Swans Academy, fostering on and off field success. If you too would like to show your support, consider donating today.
