The Sydney Swans are preparing for a final pre-season hit out this Thursday when they clash with the GWS Giants for the AAMI Community Series at Henson Park. Senior coach Dean Cox has named a 26-man squad for the practice match which includes the highly-anticipated return of Tom Papley. 

The exciting small forward has been named after calf soreness ruled him out of last week's match simulation against the Western Bulldogs. Justin McInerney who was also missing from last week's game has also been named, on the extended interchange bench. 

Sydney Swans v GWS GIANTS

AAMI Community Series •

Henson Park, Sydney • NSW

Logan McDonald will play just his second hit out after an ankle injury sidelined him for the entire 2025 AFL season (he kicked four majors last week), meanwhile fans will get another look at Charlie Curnow in action. Malcolm Rosas Jr who kicked two goals against the Dogs has been named half forward. 

The remainder of the squad remains unchanged with fan favourites Isaac Heeney, Brodie Grundy, Chad Warner and Errol Gulden all set to play.

06:57

Behind the scenes of our win over the Bulldogs | Inside Sydney

Go behind the scenes on the bench for our 33 point win over the Bulldogs in our Match Simulation on Thursday.

Speaking to SEN last week, Cox said he planned to put out two "pretty strong" squads for the club's upcoming pre-season matches. 

"We'll play a pretty strong team in both of those games. There's no week off between it and we need to make sure that we start the season well. We're looking forward to the next couple of weeks."

The Swans defeated the Bulldogs in match simulation 15.9 (99) to 9.12 (66) last Thursday.

Sydney Swans v GWS Giants 
Thursday, February 26 
Henson Park 
Gates open: 3:00pm AEDT 
Ball up: 4:10pm 

The AAMI Community Series matches will take on the following format:

• 4 quarters of 20 mins plus time on (as per AFL Premiership Season).
• Squad of 30 players; 18 on field, eight interchange and four emergencies. Minimum of four
players on the Interchange Bench during the match at any time.
• No Interchange Cap.
• Full panel of umpires appointed by the AFL.

All matches will be broadcast live on Foxtel and Kayo and ticketed for fans to attend, with free general admission* for competing club and AFL members and kids. For more ticketing information, visit here.