It’s been said that long-distance relationships don’t always work, but the bond between the Sydney Swans and their international affiliate the Chicago Swans is proof that these things are all about commitment.

Their relationship was tested over a decade ago when the clubs decided to go their separate ways, but now a new relationship has been forged between the two football clubs this season.

Long-time friend of the Chicago Swans and Sydney reserves coach Jared Crouch said the new affiliation was a relationship that benefitted both clubs.

“For them, they want a little bit of support and for us it’s about getting our name and our brand out there and offering any help we can,” he told sydneyswans.com.au.

“(Australian Rules) football is actually pretty big in the US.

“Other clubs already have affiliations. There are the New York Magpies, the Nashville Kangaroos and Boston play in Melbourne’s colours, so it’s about getting our name and brand on that scene.”

As part of the new affiliation, 'Windy City' native and Chicago Swans player Jason Wilhelm visited the Swans headquarters at the SCG last week, and was treated to a guided tour with Crouch.

Crouch, on behalf of the club, presented Wilhelm with a signed Sydney Swans guernsey, which the Chicago Swans will use to raise funds for their club.

Wilhelm said the partnership with the Sydney Swans will provide much-needed support for the Chicago club, which relied mainly on player funds.

“We pay our own way towards everything. If we want to play in another city we fly there ourselves. The club does support some of the funding in terms of lodging at the places,” he said.

“We kind of build our field every week. We draw the lines up and put four PVC pipes up and if guys can buy their own footys we do that and play the best we can.”

Wilhelm, who is currently playing in the West Australian Country Football league, said he loves Australian Rules football, which is now a fast-growing sport in the US.

“I started playing with the Chicago squad two years ago, and kind of just got roped into it casually through a friend of a friend,” he said.

“It’s kind of the mix between fitness and physical (that I enjoy).

“I was playing basketball for a little while through university and I kept fouling out and getting a little too physical with people and so I found that Aussie Rules is a sport where I can be fit, fast and hard-hitting as well as being skilled and tactical.

“Also being kind of tall, I had a natural advantage over other people, so when they stuck me in the ruck I kind of just immediately loved jumping into people and grabbing the ball and kicking it.”