Enormous Sydney Swans supporter Zac De Pasquale was over the moon to see his club defeat GWS in last Friday’s practice match at Blacktown International Sportspark.

But the youngster – whose cerebral palsy and regular strokes have made for a challenging 23 years – shone with an even brighter smile as he soaked up cherished time with Sydney co-captain Dane Rampe post-match.

Zac and his dad Leo travelled from Wollongong to cheer on the Swans in their 24-point victory over GWS – and Rampe’s gesture would make the journey home an even happier ride, with the star defender signing his guernsey, handing him a cap and shirt, joining him for a photo and chatting all things Swans.

While Zac said his condition had put him through some tough times, he made it clear his full-blooded passion for the Swans had brought plenty of smiles to his life.

“It’s pretty exhausting. I try to do the best I can but it’s impacted me a lot. I can’t get a full-time job, I can’t drive and there are a lot of other things I can’t do. I often feel really low,” Zac told Swans Media.

“But I’m a very big Swans fan. It means a lot to me to be a big Swans fan. I’m very grateful. I get a big kick out of supporting the Swans.”

Zac was in the SCG stands for every Swans home game last year, and he typically attends a couple of away fixtures every season.

He told Rampe he couldn’t wait to see Sydney face the Adelaide Crows in its first SCG match of 2019 in Round 2, which could see former co-captain Kieren Jack notch his 250^th AFL game.

Zac said meeting Rampe made for a moment he’d forever treasure.

“It was very special to meet Dane,” Zac said.

“He’s a star at the Swans and a star of the competition, and to have someone like that come and spend a few minutes with you is just amazing.”

The Sydney Swans Foundation is the driving force behind the club’s community work. CLICK HERE to learn more about the work of the Foundation.