After the completion of the 2016 NAB Challenge series we take a closer look at some fresh faces that impressed during the pre-season.
Callum Mills
There was plenty of hype surrounding the No. 3 draft pick before the pre-season series began, and he did not disappoint.
After averaging 19 disposals across three of the Swans’ NAB Challenge games, Mills has shown he’s up to the task and would be unlucky not to miss out on a round one debut.
He shows class, makes the right decisions and disposes of the ball beautifully which makes him a great candidate to fill the hole left by the retirement of Rhyce Shaw.
Callum Sinclair
Poised to slot straight into the Swans’ round one side, Callum Sinclair has made an almost seamless transition from West Coast as an exciting ruck-forward prospect.
Agile for his height, ultra-competitive and with an innate goal sense, the 26-year-old was one of the standouts of the pre-season.
With 29 games under his belt it won’t be a question of whether Sinclair can find his feet at the top level. Rather, it will be how well the Sinclair-Tippett combination gels throughout season 2016.
BLOCKBUSTER: Join us at the SCG for our round one clash against Collingwood
George Hewett
Season 2016 is a big year for Hewett.
The hard-running midfielder showed plenty of promise in his two NAB Challenge games, kicking two goals against Port Adelaide before backing up with a 12-touch performance against Carlton.
It is his ability to float forward and kick goals which will go a long way in helping the 20-year-old break through for a long-awaited AFL debut.
Nic Newman
Nic Newman was an unknown quantity in the lead up to this year’s NAB Challenge series.
After dealing with injury in the summer of 2014-15, Newman benefited from a trouble-free run this pre-season to play his first NAB Challenge game for the Sydney Swans.
And the half-backmen impressed, adding his name to a healthy list of youngsters who could potentially fill the defensive hole left by Rhyce Shaw.
Tom Papley
Likened a bit to Ben McGlynn in regards to his competiveness and goal sense, Papley has shown spurts of brilliance in his bid to become a genuine crumbing forward.
Three goals over two NAB Challenge matches, the rookie would be in line to earn an elevation if the football department decides to make the move to replace Gary Rohan who’s been placed on the long-term injury list.
With more games under his belt, Papley has the build of a ready-made player who would be more than capable of standing up and playing his role if given a chance.
Tom Papley chases down Toby Green during the second NAB Challenge match,
Jordan Dawson
Dawson’s left boot was a key attribute which landed the South Australian on the Sydney Swans’ list during the off-season.
And it was on full display over the NAB Challenge with Dawson chipping in with impressive scores, including a composed goal in the wet against Port Adelaide and a crucial super goal against GWS.
Look for the 18-year-old to develop his skill as either a third tall forward or on the wing as the season the progresses.
Jordan Dawson has impressed with his booming left foot kick.
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