Sydney Swans Strengthen Their Roster with Four New Signings

Sydney Swans Strengthen Their Roster with Four New Signings

 

The Sydney Swans have made a significant splash in the 2024 Telstra AFL Rookie Draft, selecting four talented players to bolster their roster. Joel Hamling, Aaron Francis, Ben Paton, and Blake Leidler are the newest additions to the Swans family, bringing a wealth of experience and skills to the table.

 

The Swans’ recruitment strategy has been focused on strengthening their defensive stocks, and the signing of Hamling and Francis is a testament to this approach. Both players have been solid contributors to the team since their arrival, providing valuable depth in key positions. Hamling, who joined the Swans from Fremantle in the 2024 off-season, has already made a significant impact in the VFL, playing 17 games in the red and white. Francis, on the other hand, has played 20 senior games for the Swans since joining from Essendon in 2023.

 

The Swans also made two exciting selections in the rookie draft, picking up Blake Leidler from the Oakleigh Chargers and Ben Paton, a seasoned defender from St Kilda. Leidler, a small lockdown defender, boasts impressive speed and athleticism, making him a valuable asset to the team. Paton, who has played 71 games for St Kilda over the past six seasons, brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the Swans’ defensive lineup.

 

According to Chris Keane, the Sydney Swans’ Head of List Strategy and Player Personnel, the quartet will add significant depth to the team’s roster. “We believe Ben has some traits that will help us as a small lockdown defender,” Keane said. “Blake is a talented young player who has the ability to defend strongly or use his speed and athleticism to attack with ball in hand.” Keane also praised the contributions of Hamling and Francis, stating that they have been solid contributors to the team since their arrival.

 

The Sydney Swans’ recruitment strategy has been focused on building a strong and competitive team, and the signing of these four talented players is a significant step in the right direction. With their impressive skills and experience, Hamling, Francis, Paton, and Leidler are sure to make a significant impact on the team’s performance in the upcoming season.