James Rowbottom reflection on the 2026 season has centred around consistency, loyalty and admiration for his fellow teammates and the red and white faithful.  

Rowbottom was an instrumental part of the Swans ' midfield this season, combining with Errol Gulden and co to become one of the league's faster and most lethal midfields, transferring from defence to attack in a matter of seconds.   

“I worked most closely with Errol on and off the field [and] just his knowledge of the game and the way he sees things is very different to me,” Rowbottom said when reflecting on 2026.  

“I really appreciate his perspective and the way he carries himself as well is second to none.” 

The 26-year-old averaged 6.5 tackles, 3.2 total clearances and 15.4 disposals throughout 2026, making him one of the competition's premier midfielders. 

“I think it's just been a consistent year [for myself],” Rowbottom said. 

“I didn't do anything special or didn't play too poorly. I just trucked along and tried to lead by example and hopefully I did that for the other boys.”  

Rowbottom knew that 2026 was going to be a special year very early on with the 12-goal third quarter against Carlton in the opening round, being one of the midfielders’ favourite moments of the season. 

“I think the first game against Carlton, when we kicked 12 goals in the third quarter or something, that third quarter was, that was rocking,” Rowbottom said. 

A connection that was greatly strengthened for Rowbottom this year was the connection with the fans. Rowbottom retold multiple encounters he had with fans and members, but non stuck out more than his and a young Swans member named Zach. 

“[The fans support is] just really special,” Rowbottom said. 

“There's a little fella named Zach, and he makes these A. I posters of me, and he did it throughout the season and makes new ones and gets them signed.  

“Then when I broke my hand, he made one with the cast on and got me to sign the cast on the poster. So that's been pretty special this year to have him.”