The new-look VFL competition kicks off this weekend with the Sydney Swans hosting the GWS Giants at Lakeside Oval on Saturday afternoon. 

The arch rivals will be familiar with each other having played five pre-season fixtures already in 2021, but competition points will be on the line for the first time when they go head-to-head in Round 1.

The squad boasts former number one draft pick Paddy McCartin plus an array of players who are products of the QBE Sydney Swans Academy: Ryan Hebron, Jake Bartholomeaus, Darcy Cordell, and Sam Thorne, while a number of AFL listed players are also set to don the red and white.

Bartholomeaus (pictured above), who won the NEAFL MVP award with Sydney University in 2019, is set to light up the competition this season and is relishing the opportunity to play alongside players with AFL experience.

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Jake Bartholomeaus looking ahead to 2021 VFL Season

Jake Bartholomeaus speaks ahead of the Swans round 1 VFL season opener against the Giants.

"It's pretty exciting, we have played five practice matches now and the boys have bided their time well over the last four weeks watching the senior squad run out and play for points,"  Bartholomeaus said. 

"There has been a lot of talk about the Round one clash and to go out and play for points - it just adds another element to it.

"You draw so much inspiration from the senior squad, just to watch the young kids and mature players go out and play that Swans brand of footy.

"Sitting in the stands, your hairs stand up on the back of your neck seeing some of the stuff they do out on the ground.

"Now, you're playing with a lot of AFL listed players every week and it challenges you as an individual if you want to get to that level, but just to get to the club and train with the senior players and learn off them, it gives you a light at the end of the tunnel."

The Swans will take plenty of confidence going into their first match of the new competition, after a 37-point win over the Giants on Saturday in their final pre-season hit out.

The Round 1 fixture will kick-off at 12pm on Lakeside Oval, a precursor to Sydney Derby XX.

For all transport details ahead of the VFL fixture and Sydney Derby XX, head to the Match Day HUB.

Sydney’s fiercest rivalry returns to the SCG when Sydney Derby XX takes place on Saturday, April 17. Be there LIVE in the popular twilight timeslot – ideal for fans of all ages, and a great school holidays activity! Click here to purchase your tickets.