In summary:
Young defender Colin O’Riordan says the 2018 season is one he will cherish for life and it’s easy to see why.
The Irishman completed a remarkable journey from the green hills of county Tipperary to the AFL, making his senior debut in Sydney’s thrilling six-point win over North Melbourne at Etihad Stadium in Round 17.
He had touched a Sherrin just a handful of times before landing in Australia for the 2015 AFL Draft Combine.
O’Riordan earned an AFL call-up off the back of stunning form in the NEAFL, averaging 29 disposals, nine marks and six rebound 50s per game across the season.
The 23-year-old was rewarded with his second NEAFL Team of the Year selection and captained Sydney in the 2018 NEAFL Grand Final against the Southport Sharks.
O’Riordan played a total of three senior games and impressed on the stats sheet, averaging 16 touches and five marks per match.
The 2018 season marked his third season in red and white and his first under close friend, mentor and fellow Irishman Tadhg Kennelly, who joined the Swans as a development coach ahead of O’Riordan’s breakout year.
What the numbers say:
NEAFL
Games: 16
Kicks: 291
Handballs: 172
Disposals: 463
Marks: 137
Tackles: 44
Rebound 50s: 88
Best performance:
Round 17: Sydney Swans v North Melbourne, Etihad Stadium
O’Riordan played a crucial role on debut in the Swans’ gripping win over the Roos in Round 17. The youngster collected 19 possessions, eight marks and five rebound 50s in the Swans’ six-point victory, helping Sydney crack a two-game losing run in a game he described as “incredible”.
What they said:
Colin O’Riordan
“I was pretty happy with the year I had. I set out to play senior football and to be able to tick that off and say I did play is very special. It’s a year I’ll definitely remember for a long, long time – for as long as I live – and my debut was definitely a game I will never forget. It was a very special night considering everyone that was there and what was at stake. It really resonates with me because I feel like I’ve come a long way and I’ve really started my journey now properly. The journey has started now and it’s up to me as to how far it goes.”
Head of Development John Blakey
“We’re really pleased with the way Colin’s developed over the past couple of years. He made the NEAFL Team of the Year again, which was fantastic, and obviously made his AFL debut and played those three games. He’s developing really well and we’re expecting bigger and better things next year. If he keeps improving the way he is we’ll see some great senior footy from him soon.”
In pictures:
O'Riordan gets the token debutant Gatorade shower after a win against the Kangaroos.
Getting the kick away.
A big hug from coach John Longmire.
Stay tuned for more season reviews at sydneyswans.com.au over the coming weeks.
