Sydney veteran Luke Parker has had a unique season and yet could be a premiership player by the end of it.
Dealing with injuries, a VFL suspension and the strength of the side in 2024, Parker didn't get a look into the Swans senior side until Round 18.
"I think, unfortunately, I've had three pre-seasons in one year," Parker quipped on SEN.
"The first time, with the arm injury, I was feeling really good pre-season, going into the first Giants practice match and broke my arm there, so I had about 10 weeks where, over the first month or two, was more about recovery than getting to full fitness.
"Played a few games in the reserves and started to feel confident in myself, and then obviously with the suspension, that was when I sat down and was like ', what does this next six or seven weeks look like?'
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"So, come the back end of the season, I can really contribute to the team.
"The worst thing is when you're fully fit and can't play, and trying to create scenarios as much as possible and and just keep a positive mindset.
"My biggest thing was coming in the back end of the season, bringing a bit more energy."
In his eight games so far, Parker has played a hybrid role between forward and midfield, spending a lot of time in the front half due to the emergence of Chad Warner and Isaac Heeney.
Forward
Disposals
Marks
Goals
Even midfielder Taylor Adams has unfortunately found himself on the outer as the club looks to secure a premiership for the first time since 2012.
The 31-year-old was adamant that the three losses (2014, 2016, 2022) in the deciding matches would only benefit the Swans over the next month.
"I think the biggest thing for our group is connection," Parker said.
"If you look back at 2022, you're a young side full of confidence and riding that wave and all of a sudden, you find yourself in a grand final.
"But from that grand final, the learning was how disconnected we were in the moment and almost writing your story before it was written.
"And obviously you get a little window of opportunity and seeing them for what they are.
"(So) bring a sense of desperation also a sense of composure in those moments."
Sydney's qualifying final win against cross-town rivals GWS has them locked away in the final four, with the club granted a week off.
They will host Port Adelaide or Hawthorn at the SCG in a fortnight.
