Ex-Sydney defender Colin O'Riordan has stepped into the role of head coach of the Swans' Male Academy following Mark McVeigh's move into the club's senior coaching ranks.
The Swans made a number of moves in their football department for the 2024 season earlier this month when football boss Charlie Gardiner returned to Melbourne, with Academy director Leon Cameron stepping into the executive role.
Academy coach McVeigh was also appointed to an assistant coaching role following Don Pyke's departure to West Coast this off-season.
His switch has seen O'Riordan move from the club's AFLW coaching group to the senior role of the club's Male Academy, where he'll mentor the club's emerging crop of young footballers.
"It's pretty special. I came here in 2015 and it was a bit of a journey initially, I never envisioned myself being in this role," O'Riordan said in a club statement.
"I fell in love with the place and it's a massive honour and I'm really proud.
"Short term goal is to get to know the kids and their families, get them to understand what professional standards look like and just give them the best opportunity to succeed."
O'Riordan played 34 games over five seasons for the Swans before calling time on his career a year ago.
Cameron said his appointment is an exciting addition to the club's Academy program.
"Colin is a wonderful young coach and someone who is incredibly passionate about teaching others," Cameron said.
"We have been extremely impressed with his work in the AFLW program where he has demonstrated leadership, a tremendous work ethic and exemplary football knowledge โ which is even more impressive given he has only been in our industry since 2015.
"We're thrilled to be able to elevate Colin to this role and look forward to watching him nurture our up-and-coming talent."
The Swans recruited two Academy products to their list this week, with first-round selection Caiden Cleary and Rookie Draft addition Indhi Kirk, son of club great Brett, joining the Bloods.
The likes of Errol Gulden, Isaac Heeney, Callum Mills and Nick Blakey have all joined Sydney's senior list out of their Academy prospects.
