Following an injury interrupted 2012 season, which saw Parker play the entire finals campaign as the Swans’ substitute, the 20-year-old played every game in 2013 and steered clear of the green jacket all season.
In addition to playing a strong role in the midfield, Parker also showed his ability to be a dangerous forward option finishing the season with 22 goals, including a three-goal haul in the Swans’ semi-final win over Carlton.
Parker told sydneyswans.com.au that he couldn’t wait to take another step up in 2014.
How did you rate your season in 2013?
I wanted to have a really consistent season and I think I did that. I played every game and thought I took my game to another level and improved on the areas that I wanted to.
Towards the end of 2012 you played a lot of games as the sub, but you’ve become a regular player this year. That must have been one of your goals?
That was what made me hungry over the pre-season; I wanted to get out of the green jacket. I got rid of that for the year and didn’t get subbed off, which was probably one of the highlights.
While the preliminary final loss was disappointing, what have been some of your highlights?
The highlight has been seeing the young guys come through and replace guys like Goodesy and Sam Reid and the fact they have just come in and been able to play their role.
You played more of a role up forward in the last few weeks of the season, how did you feel about playing that role?
I had to go forward a bit more and play a bit deeper out of the goal square. It ended up suiting me a bit and I ended up one- on-one a fair bit and kicked a few goals. It’s always good to get on the scoreboard, but I just went down there and tried to play my role.
What are some of the things you hope to work on next pre-season?
Still my spread from the contests, that’s probably the main thing that I want to work on. Also, just my basic skills and finishing as well as my kicking under pressure and composure.
Given so many young players stepped up this year, do you think you took on a bit of a leadership role with that group?
I think I could still go to another level with my leadership. I’m probably not the most vocal person off the field but on the field I try to say what I think and lead by example.
How do you feel about being considered the next Jude Bolton, now he’s announced his retirement?
He’s been an outstanding bloke at this club and has been a legend of the game and to be compared to him is an honour really. To be said to be replacing him is just really exciting and I just can’t wait for next season.
What are your plans for the off-season?
I’m just heading over to Bali for a bit and after that I’m just chilling out really and catching up with the family and heading down to Melbourne for my 21st.
