The Sydney Swans AFLW season kicks off on Friday night against the Richmond Tigers at North Sydney Oval, and assistant coach Tanya Hetherington is back to give the inside word on the team.

What did the team learn from the preseason matches against GWS and Brisbane?

The practice matches are always a great opportunity to test where you’re at against an opposition team as well as give all players an opportunity to showcase their strengths prior to the season, and we certainly feel we got a lot out of it from that perspective.

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"You want to just see it all take the next step" - Hetherington

Hear from Sydney Swans AFLW midfield coach Tanya Hetherington on the growth of the team after an exciting practice match against GWS.

Nine new players joined the team over the off-season, what have they brought to the team?

All players we have brought into the team this year have brought something different to the team, whether that be energy, skill, experience or youthful enthusiasm, they have made us better and I can’t wait for our fans to see them all this season!

Round 1 at North Sydney Oval on Friday night, what’s the best thing about playing there?

Definitely the vibe! The atmosphere that the swans crowd brings to the team is unreal and the players really get a lift out of it!

What players have impressed you the most over the pre-season?

So many players have impressed this pre-season, from young draftees in Zippy Fish and Amelia Martin to experienced heads like Jas Grierson but it’s also been great to see the continual development of our players in their 4th pre-seasons like Montana Ham and Cynthia Hamilton, which is very exciting.   

What can members and fans expect from the Sydney Swans this season?

An exciting brand of footy that our members and fans can be proud of! Get to North Sydney Friday night and show your support!

Be there, as we open our season with Friday night footy against Richmond, at North Sydney Oval on August 15.

Secure your tickets HERE.