Sydney Swans defence coach Tadhg Kennelly has lauded the “outstanding” season of star backman Dane Rampe.

The 29-year-old was an immovable force in Sydney’s back six in his first season as a co-captain, averaging 20 disposals, 5.9 marks, 6.7 rebound 50s and 2.9 tackles per match.

The New South Welshman played lockdown roles on the competition’s most potent forwards, including Jeremy Cameron, Josh Kennedy and Michael Walters, but it wouldn’t stop him from nabbing a place in the 40-man All Australian squad.

Kennelly said Rampe was exceptional in season 2019.

“He was outstanding in defence this year – one of the best one-on-one best defenders in the competition,” Kennelly told SwansTV.

“He obviously got rewarded with All Australian squad selection. It was a bit disappointing that he didn’t make the team, to tell you the truth, but we can’t control that.

“But as far as his defending and his leadership – absolute elite standard. You can’t ask more of a defender, and his ability to play on the best forwards whether big or small was outstanding.” 

Rampe was handed Sydney’s co-captaincy alongside Josh Kennedy and Luke Parker during the off-season, and the injury troubles of seasoned defenders Jarrad McVeigh, Heath Grundy and Nick Smith would add to his weight of responsibility.

The absence of more than 750 AFL games of experience saw Rampe emerge as the driving force behind Sydney’s back six, leading youngsters like Callum Mills, Aliir Aliir, Lewis Melican and Colin O’Riordan.

It pains Rampe to know the Swans failed to qualify for the finals in his first season as a co-captain, but he believes they’re well positioned to springboard into the 2020 campaign.

“I’m still pretty disappointed that we’re not playing finals, but at the same time I’m really proud of the way our young group of boys applied themselves,” Rampe said.

“I think we’ve got some really good momentum over the back end of the year that we can take into the pre-season.”