The Sydney Swans have paid tribute to 2005 premiership captain Barry Hall, who was last night inducted into the AFL Hall of Fame.

Hall kicked 467 goals for the Swans over 162 games, and led Sydney to its 72-year drought-breaking premiership. An All-Australian three years in a row, Hall won the 2004 Bob Skilton Medal.

Sydney Swans Chairman Andrew Pridham said Hall is one of the Club’s greats.

“Barry will be remembered as one of the Sydney Swans’ most impactful players,” Pridham said.

“As our premiership captain in 2005, his on-field leadership cannot be overstated in leading the Club into a new era of success.

“A life member of the Swans and now an AFL Hall of Fame member, we should all be very proud of Barry and his achievements.”

Swans coach John Longmire, who was Hall’s forward coach in Sydney, said he was one of the best he’s seen in the AFL.

“Barry was one of the great forwards to play the game,” Longmire said.

“He had an ability to not only kick goals – and he kicked plenty of them – but to provide a real target in the forward half when he was here in Sydney.

“He was absolutely hellbent on doing the best he could to be the best possible player and the best team player.

“He was a great team player for the Sydney Swans and he left a big mark on this place.”

Those thoughts were echoed by 2005 premiership teammate, Nick Davis.

“Barry was a great teammate. He was selfless for the team and he kicked a lot of goals, but he helped Mick (O’Loughlin), Adam Schneider and myself out a lot more,” Davis said.

“He was the ultimate competitor on and off the field.”