Parker re-signs with Swans
20-year-old midfielder Luke Parker has re-signed with the Sydney Swans
Parker, a revelation for the Swans since being taken with pick No.40 in the 2010 draft, has extended his stay in Sydney until at least the end of the 2016 season.
Parker joins fellow fresh-faced midfielders Josh Kennedy, Kieren Jack and Dan Hannebery in inking multi-year deals this season.
The 20-year-old, who fractured his jaw and broke his collarbone in 2012 before returning to be the side's substitute in their grand-final win, suggested a return to his home state of Victoria was never on the cards.
"I absolutely love it here, so I wouldn't want to be anywhere else," Parker said.
"Obviously it was a bit daunting to move states and starting fresh up here (as an 18-year-old).
"But I've absolutely loved every minute of it, and I really can't see myself going anywhere else.
"I just love the lifestyle ... even blokes likes Goodesy (dual Brownlow medallist Adam Goodes) walk down the street without always getting noticed.
"You have that life away from football. You're not talking footy all the time."
Parker who is renowned for his toughness, was compared to Swans veteran Jude Bolton after debuting in round 8 of 2011 and is now mentored by 2012 Norm Smith medallist Ryan O'Keefe.
Despite his age, Parker has become a key member of the Swans' midfield and has already chalked up 50 games.
Swans coach John Longmire has long lauded his desperation to learn and become a better player.
And despite bagging a Premiership medallion as a teenager, nothing has changed.
"This year I've just been trying to play consistent footy ... I want to have an influence on the game and I just want to improve," Parker said modestly of his season so far.
"It's an amazing experience and an amazing feeling to win a grand final, but the thing is you have to move on pretty quickly.
"You have to come back, switch on, start again and get better."