The Sydney Swans have finally made some moves on their roster as they look to build the extra step required heading into the 2025 season.
In a recent list update, the club announced that young defender Caleb Mitchell and small forward Tom Hanily have each secured one-year contract extensions, keeping them at the Swans until the end of 2025.
Meanwhile, Academy product Lachlan McAndrew has been delisted after three years with the club.
Mitchell, a 20-year-old defender from Mulwala, joined Sydney with Pick 40 in the 2022 National Draft. He debuted this year in Round 3 against Richmond at the MCG and has since played two AFL games, showcasing promise with his speed and decision-making in the backline.
Before being drafted, Mitchell gained experience with Vic Country, the Murray Bushrangers, and Yarrawonga, where he made a name for himself with his football IQ and resilience.
Joining Mitchell in the extended Swans lineup is Tom Hanily, a versatile forward selected in this year's mid-season rookie draft with Pick 14.
Hanily, known for his endurance and footy intelligence, impressed in the Swans' VFL team, playing eight games since his arrival.
Originally from Gippsland Power, the 18-year-old's determination to reach AFL-level football has been evident, and Sydney's Head of List Strategy and Player Personnel, Chris Keane, previously lauded Hanily's “ability to get up and down the ground” and his tactical awareness.
Conversely, 22-year-old Lachlan McAndrew has been let go by the Swans after two seasons in the senior squad.
A towering 210cm ruckman, McAndrew joined the club through the 2021 mid-season rookie draft after transitioning from rugby union to Australian Rules through the Swans Academy.
Despite his efforts, which included his debut game in 2023 against North Melbourne, the Swans decided not to extend his contract as they refine their ruck stocks.
These list changes come on the heels of a relatively subdued trade period for the Swans.
The club traded veteran midfielder Luke Parker and youngster Jacob Konstanty to North Melbourne in exchange for Pick 44, parting with a club great and an emerging talent.
The Swans now hold four selections in the 2024 AFL Draft: Picks 19, 22, 44, and 59.
A keen eye is being kept on star midfielder Chad Warner, whose links to Western Australia will only draw more headlines in the lead up to next year's trade period, despite only shutting up shop on the 2024 deadline last night.
