In a nutshell
It was always going to be tough to salvage anything significant from a 0-6 start to the year, and that's how it panned out, despite the Swans' extraordinary effort to make the eight.
What we said in the pre-season?
Like most, we failed to predict Sydney's awful early season form and from there the top-four finish was never in play. We were on the money picking Lance Franklin to win his fourth Coleman Medal, while the NSW All Australian domination didn't eventuate, although Josh Kennedy was surprisingly overlooked.
What worked
Led by Kennedy and Luke Parker, the Swans' contested style was at its best when they won 15 of 17 games after round six and dominated opposition teams through the midfield. The backline was also outstanding during that period and was ranked first for points against during the regular season.
What failed
Most of the team failed against Geelong in last week's semi-final, and it will be a long summer for the coach as well. Kieren Jack and Kurt Tippett both played injured early in the season and it backfired, with both underperforming and eventually forced to miss a bunch of games to get fit.
Overall rating: C
The revival was exceptional but it meant little after such a poor finals exit.
The coach
John Longmire's effort to guide his team to a seventh straight top-eight finish was remarkable, but 15 wins is his lowest mark since his debut season of 2011. A loss to the Cats in a semi-final last week, which could prompt some tinkering with the list and the game plan.
The leaders
Kennedy was phenomenal in his first year as skipper, especially under huge pressure early in the season. His performances remained elite, and from all reports, his leadership matched his on-field output. Parker, Franklin, Heath Grundy and Nick Smith were consistent again, but injuries worries hurt the influence of Dan Hannebery, Dane Rampe and Jarrad McVeigh.
MVP
Josh Kennedy: The captain was at his contested ball-winning best all year even when his side was winless after round six. Averaged 28.2 possessions and 6.8 clearances per game.
Surprise packet
Nic Newman: Debuted in round two as a 24-year-old and averaged over 20 disposals in his 20 games. Able to play wing or across half-back, he should be rapt with his season.
Get excited
Will Hayward: With lightning speed and a keen eye for goal, the draftee booted 22.9 from 17 games and gave the Swans plenty of pressure inside 50.
Disappointment
Aliir Aliir: battled injury during the pre-season and never got going. Played three of the first four games but was dropped, then failed to turn up for training when he was recalled in round seven. Wasn't seen again.
Best win
Round 22: Sydney 13.5 (83) defeated Adelaide 11.14 (80) at Adelaide Oval
With Kennedy, Parker and Hannebery combining for 89 possessions, 18 clearances and 16 tackles, and Franklin booting three clutch goals, the Swans hung on to win a thriller.
Low point
With 15 wins from their past 17 matches the Swans went into their semi-final against Geelong as favourites, but couldn't match the Cats' intensity and got blown off the park.
Season in a song
Six Months In A Leaky Boat – Split Enz
Premiership window
Three-quarters open: Some luck over the pre-season will help.
Who's done?
Retirements: Nil
Delistings: Nil
Unsigned free agents: Nil
How should they approach trade and draft period?
Just like they did last year, expect the Swans to draft players with leg speed and quality foot skills, while they'll also be interested in key defenders.
Early call for 2018
If the Swans get some luck over summer and can keep all their important weapons fit and healthy, they'll be finals contenders again, and should push for a return to the top four.
Swans fans: what's your season verdict?
Share your views via the form below and we'll publish the best responses on Thursday, September 28.
