Sydney Swans

Sydney pair Ryan Clarke and Will Gould ink new deals

The duo will remain in the Harbour City beyond 2022.

Published by
Juri Bilcich

Sydney have locked away the hard-working Ryan Clarke and defender Will Gould for season 2023.

After struggling to find a place back in the side, Clarke had a new lease on life playing as a defensive forward and with it shutting down the opposition's most damaging half-backs, including Jack Sinclair, Nick Daicos, Bailey Dale, and Jordan Clark.

The former Kangaroo would go on to play 14 games in 2022, including the Grand Final against Geelong.

Since moving to the Harbour City ahead of the 2019 season, the 25-year-old has played 41 games for the red and white after 40 games in three seasons with North Melbourne.

Speaking to the club's website, Swans Executive General Manager Charlie Gardiner says Clarke's signature is a testament to his character.

"Ryan has shown this year that he can play a very important role for the team, he works incredibly hard and displays total commitment to the side which we love," Gardiner said.

SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA - MAY 01: (L-R) Luke Parker, Oliver Florent and Ryan Clarke of the Swans celebrate victory after the round seven AFL match between the Sydney Swans and the Geelong Cats at Sydney Cricket Ground on May 01, 2021 in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by Matt King/AFL Photos/via Getty Images)

"He's a quality young man and has shown great resilience over his career to date. We are looking forward to where he can take his game from here."

Although still yet to play at AFL Level, Gould has been rewarded for a standout VFL season by taking out the club's Player of the Year Award for their reserves.

"Will's development has been solid as a key defender and we believe he has a good future at the Swans," Gardiner said.

"We are looking forward to seeing what Will can produce in 2023. He's worked hard on his game over the last three years and was one of our most consistent performers at VFL level this season, so we are plased that he has recommitted to the club."

Published by
Juri Bilcich