In summary:

Towering forward Tom McCartin is the youngest player in the AFL, but the first-year Swan filled the massive boots of Sam Reid in season 2018.

While injury limited 2012 premiership forward Reid to just one senior game, it opened the door for McCartin to play as a key-forward foil to star forward Lance Franklin.

McCartin played just four NEAFL matches before earning his AFL debut and would go on to make 15 senior appearances. 

The 18-year-old only kicked eight goals in the AFL, but his ability to bring the ball to ground for the likes of the smaller and speedier Tom Papley and Ben Ronke continually earned coach John Longmire’s praise.

McCartin also stood tall in a number of critical moments, including in the dying stages of Sydney’s clash with Collingwood in Round 20, producing a miraculous goal to hand the Swans a thrilling two-point win.

The Geelong Falcons product signed a two-year contract extension late in the season, linking himself with the Swans until at least the end of 2021.

What the numbers say:

Games: 15

Goals: 8

Kicks: 69

Handballs: 65

Disposals: 134

Marks: 50

AFL Fantasy: 44.1 (average)

Best performance:

Round 9: Sydney Swans v Fremantle, SCG

McCartin booted two goals from nine touches as the Swans toppled the Dockers at the SCG in Round 9. He nailed a right-foot snap from the pocket to bring up the first AFL major of his career, with his teammates swamping him like snow in celebration.

What they said:

Tom McCartin

“Heading into the season and the year I wasn’t really sure what to expect – whether I’d get a game or not. But I was lucky enough to play a handful this year, which was great. I’ve still got a few things to improve on, which I’m looking forward to doing in the pre-season. But my first year was great fun.”

Forwards coach Steve Johnson

“Tommy had a huge responsibility on his shoulders this year. We probably didn’t expect him to play as many games as he did, but when he got his opportunity he made the most of it. He really played an important role for the team. A young kid playing centre half-forward for the majority of the season, we’re really looking to seeing what he can do in the future at this club."

In pictures:

Eyes on the prize: Debutant Tom McCartin welcomes the footy against the Hawks in Round 8.

Tom McCartin soaks up the elation of his first Gatorade shower after the clash with the Hawks.

Brotherly love: Tom McCartin and older brother Paddy after the Swans met the Saints in Round 12.

Stay tuned for more season reviews at sydneyswans.com.au over the coming weeks.