Sydney Swans Gear Up for New Season with Roster Overhaul and Game Plan Adjustments

The Sydney Swans have completed their pre-season preparations, marked by significant roster adjustments and a revised game plan. After finishing tenth last season, the team is set on an improved performance in the upcoming season, bolstered by key recruit Charlie Curnow, who has seamlessly integrated into the squad following his move from Carlton.

Pre-Season Overview and Game Plan Adjustments

Sydney Swans coach Dean Cox provided an update on the team's intensive pre-season, which included rigorous training, match simulations, and high-intensity running. A substantial overhaul of the game plan has been implemented, with a strong focus on increased ball speed and high-intensity play.

Players are required to take notes during meetings to adapt to new strategic terminology.

Midfielders Errol Gulden and Chad Warner, alongside Isaac Heeney and Nick Blakey, have notably demonstrated strong performances in recent match simulations.

Roster and Coaching Developments

The Swans have made several strategic roster adjustments. New additions to the team include Charlie Curnow, tall defender Jai Serong, and small forward Malcolm Rosas jnr. Departing players include Will Hayward, Ollie Florent, and Jack Buller.

In coaching changes, former Melbourne premiership coach Simon Goodwin has joined as director of coaching, and Jeremy Laidler has returned as an assistant. Coach Cox highlighted that Goodwin's new role allows him to concentrate more effectively on player coaching.

Player Health and Progress

The team has reported a relatively healthy off-season with fewer surgeries than in previous years. Captain Callum Mills, who missed a significant portion of the last season due to injury, is now fully fit and settling into a new half-back role. Logan McDonald, who faced challenges last year, is training ahead of the ball as coaches explore his versatility. First-round pick Jesse Dattoli also had a strong pre-season after missing five months last year due to a back injury.

Charlie Curnow's Transition and Recovery

Charlie Curnow described his decision to leave Carlton Football Club as challenging, citing personal well-being and life circumstances. He received support from his partner, Tiana Simic, and his brother, Ed Curnow, a former Carlton player.

Curnow has relocated to a new home near Tamarama Beach and reported feeling significantly better after completing his first full pre-season with the Swans.

This marks a significant contrast to previous seasons, which were plagued by multiple injuries, including ankle and two knee surgeries, severely impacting his training and performance. His previous season concluded early in July due to accumulated injuries.

After injury rehabilitation, Curnow considered options from other AFL clubs before ultimately choosing the Sydney Swans. He cited the club's strong culture, historical success, core values, and consistent performance over the past two decades as key factors.

He acknowledged his acquisition involved the departures of players like Will Hayward and Ollie Florent, expressing motivation to justify the club's investment.

Regarding his knee, Curnow stated that a recent scope was a common procedure and far less severe than a past career-threatening injury in 2020. He is now focused on training and adapting to life in Sydney, developing key partnerships with new teammates, including Errol Gulden, Isaac Heeney, and Chad Warner.

Curnow's objective is clear: to contribute to the Swans' pursuit of their first premiership since 2012. He has received encouragement from former Swans star Lance Franklin while aiming to establish his own distinct playing style. Coach Dean Cox has noted Curnow's smooth integration into the team. The coaching staff is currently determining the optimal strategy for incorporating multiple tall forwards and rucks, including Curnow, Joel Amartey, Hayden McLean, Logan McDonald, Brodie Grundy, and Peter Ladhams.

Team Aspirations

Following a tenth-place finish in Coach Cox's inaugural season, the team is keenly focused on improving its performance in the upcoming season. Within the playing group, an unspoken confidence regarding their capabilities has been noted.