The McCartin brothers will continue their football journey together with Paddy McCartin joining the Sydney Swans senior list as a rookie for the upcoming 2022 AFL season.

The former number one draft pick has signed on with the club as a delisted free agent in the pre-season selection window after delivering strong performances for Sydney’s East Coast VFL side in 2021.

The 25-year-old joins younger brother Tom McCartin on the senior list, after Tom played a pivotal role in his brother’s move north last year. 

“It’s extremely exciting – it’s been a unique journey for me to get back to this point. It’s a path that not many people have taken, but my goal was to always try and get back to the elite level and to be able to do it with the Swans. To do it with Tom, in particular, is something that means a lot and is exciting,” says McCartin.

“I’ve loved training with the team and playing last year, so it’s good to get on the list. There’s a lot that we want to achieve as a group so I’m looking forward to getting stuck in with the guys this year.”

Prior to joining Sydney, Paddy McCartin spent five seasons at St Kilda where he was the number one draft pick in 2014, however was restricted to just 35 games due to injury.

“Paddy has worked extremely hard over the past two years to get himself fit and healthy, and in a position to continue his AFL career. To his credit, he has overcome several challenges and ultimately his strong VFL form last season and commitment to training over the pre-season has enabled him to earn another AFL opportunity,” said Sydney Swans Executive GM – Football Charlie Gardiner. 

“At just 25 years of age Paddy still has plenty of footy left to play, and his re-joining the senior list will provide the club with the flexibility of another tall option who can play at either end of the ground.

“We’re looking forward to seeing what Paddy can deliver this season. We know he and Tom are excited about the opportunity to continue training and playing together.”