A huge Sydney Swans fan with cerebral palsy realised a beloved dream on Tuesday when he met star forward Lance Franklin.

Central Coast resident Jake Banks travelled to the SCG with Coastlink carer Dominic Canadas to enjoy a front-row seat for a Swans training session.

Banks had a photo taken with Franklin and his favourite player presented the 24-year-old with a signed Swans guernsey.

Banks said it made for a surreal experience.

“It means a lot to me to meet Lance Franklin,” Banks said with a booming grin.

“He’s been my favourite player ever since he debuted in the AFL. He can kick goals from the centre square and even from 60 metres out." 

Banks met every player and the whole coaching group, including midfield coach and former Swans skipper Brett Kirk who he struck an immediate connection with.

Banks’ face lit up as Kirk greeted him at the entrance of the Paul Kelly Race and the Swans die-hard told the Sydney champion he had fond memories of his days in the red and white.

Banks has lived life in a wheelchair since he was born and his parents have had the help of Coastlink since 2008, the year Franklin kicked more than 100 goals in a season.

Franklin traded Hawthorn colours for the red and white ahead of season 2014 but Banks has idolised the 885-goal champion since he first saw him play in 2005.

Banks has had the assistance of Canadas since 2014 but the star duo originally met at a Central Coast Mariners game.

Banks’ contagious smile often finds its way onto the big screen and he is well-known among Mariners crowds.

Canadas said his reaction to meeting Franklin was priceless.

“He was rapt, he had a smile from ear to ear,” Canadas said.

“It’s great to see that and it was awesome the Swans were able to tee it all up.

“He always loved to remind me that Buddy was his favourite player and that it was his ultimate dream to meet him.”

The Sydney Swans are proud to support the Cerebral Palsy Alliance, which help babies, children, teenagers and adults living with cerebral palsy and other neurological and physical disabilities lead the most comfortable, independent and inclusive lives possible. To learn more about Cerebral Palsy Alliance, and to donate, please click here.