Sydney Swans

Sydney Swans make further list changes

The Swans have announced that three players haven’t been offered contracts for 2023.

Published by
Danielle Sorati

Sydney have made three more list changes, informing Sam Naismith, James Bell, and Ben Ronke that they will not be offered contracts for the 2023 season.

Naismith has played 30 games for the Swans after making his debut in 2014, dealing with a series of knee injuries that have left him on the sidelines. The 30-year-old played his last game for the club in Round 4, 2020.

Academy product Bell was drafted in the 2017 Rookie Draft, going on to make his debut in 2019. The 23-year-old managed six games at senior level this season, averaging 7.5 disposals, bringing his total games to 28.

Ronke meanwhile played eight games in 2022, averaging nine disposals and kicking six goals. The 24-year-old was originally drafted in the 2016 Rookie Draft, going on to play 44 total games for the club since his debut in 2018.

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - MAY 11: Ben Ronke of the Swans celebrates his sixth goal during the 2018 AFL round eight match between the Hawthorn Hawks and the Sydney Swans at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on May 11, 2018 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Adam Trafford/AFL Media/Getty Images)

Charlie Gardiner, Executive General Manager of Football at the Swans, thanked the trio for their time at the club.

“Sam, James, and Ben have all made played important roles in our program over a number of years,” Gardiner said.

“Sam has unfortunately faced significant injury setbacks over the past five seasons, undergoing three ACL repairs. Over the journey he has shown enormous dedication and resilience during his rehabilitation and training.

"James showed potential at AFL level featuring in 12 games in 2021 including the finals series. He has also displayed strong performances at VFL where he has continued to develop his game.

"Ben also faced considerable injury setbacks over the past three seasons, but managed to play some consistent football at VFL level this year. We have all admired his commitment to overcome some of his injury challenges.

“We thank Ben, James and Sam for their very valuable contributions to our club. They have been popular members of the squad and will always be a part of the Swans family. On behalf of everyone at Swans, I wish them all the very best for the future."

Published by
Danielle Sorati