In summary:

Callum Sinclair played mainly as a key forward in 2017 and pinched-hit in the ruck, but the 200-centimetre giant took on a mountain of responsibility as the Swans’ primary ruckman in 2018.

Kurt Tippett retired during the pre-season and Sam Naismith suffered a season-ending ACL injury on the eve of Round 1. 

But Sinclair thrived in his new role, averaging 14 disposals, four marks and 29 hit-outs per game.

The 28-year-old collected a total of 667 hit-outs in 2018 and the second-highest amount was 25, with Sinclair recording 90 per cent of Swans hit-outs.

But while he battled hard against a number of imposing ruckmen, including Max Gawn, Brodie Grundy and Aaron Sandilands, he continued to impact in front of goal, booting 12 majors to top the competition’s go-to ruckmen on the scoresheet.

What the numbers say:

Games: 23

Goals: 12

Hit-outs: 667

Kicks: 216

Handballs: 120

Disposals: 336

Marks: 86

Tackles: 70

AFL Fantasy: 92.7 (average)

Best performance:

Round 3: Sydney Swans v GWS, SCG

Sinclair collected a game-high eight AFL Coaches’ Association votes as the Swans snared a 16-point win over the Giants. The towering Swan gathered 45 hit-outs and booted three goals to inspire Sydney to its second win of the season. 

Milestone:

Playing 50th Swans game

Sinclair notched his 50th game in red and white as Sydney met Geelong at the SCG in Round 16. He has played a total of 87 career games, racking up 29 for West Coast before moving to Sydney ahead of season 2016.

What they said:

Sinclair

“I think overall I was pretty consistent. I had the opportunity to play big minutes in the middle of the ground and it was a responsibility that I really enjoyed.”

Midfield coach Dean Cox

“I was proud of what Callum was able to do this year. He was able to take the number one ruck role and he was rucking for up to 110 minutes per game by himself. I think as a footballer he learnt a lot. You’ve got some really important players for opposition sides, like Gawn, Grundy, Naitanui and the like. To be able to develop his game to restrict them in certain ways was very good.”

In pictures:

Callum Sinclair competes with West Coast Eagles juggernaut Nic Naitanui at Perth's Optus Stadium in Round 1.

Callum Sinclair celebrates kicking a goal in Sydney's win over Carlton at the SCG in Round 11.

Callum Sinclair kicks a goal in Sydney's win over St Kilda at Etihad Stadium in Round 12.

Stay tuned for more season reviews at www.sydneyswans.com.au over the coming weeks.