The Sydney Swans are proud to announce the elevation of the late Henry ‘Sonny’ Elms to Bloods Champion status, along with the induction of Premiership players Nick Malceski, Ben Mathews, Rhyce Shaw, and the late Harry Purdy into the Swans Hall of Fame.

The Hall of Fame ceremony took place on Thursday evening in the Noble Dining Room at the iconic Sydney Cricket Ground.

BLOODS CHAMPION: HENRY ‘SONNY’ ELMS

‘Sonny’ Elms played 215 games for South Melbourne and captained the club for 10 consecutive seasons, from 1885 to 1894. A member of four premiership sides (1885, 1888, 1889, and 1890), Elms was revered for his leadership and tactical brilliance — once described as the “Napoleon of football commanders.”

HALL OF FAME INDUCTEES

Nick Malceski was drafted to the Swans in 2002 and went on to play 176 games and kick 67 goals. A defining moment in his career — and Swans history — came in the 2012 Grand Final, where he kicked the match-sealing goal with just 40 seconds remaining.

Ben Mathews was celebrated for his relentless work ethic and consistency over 198 games with the Swans. He was one of six co-captains during the club’s triumphant 2005 Premiership season and played a vital shutdown role in the midfield.

Rhyce Shaw joined the Swans from Collingwood at the end of 2008 and became a key figure in Sydney’s defensive unit, playing 143 games in red and white. A hard-running and resilient player, Shaw thrived under coach Paul Roos and was instrumental in the 2012 Premiership.

Henry ‘Harry’ Purdy was a prominent figure in the South Melbourne teams of the VFA era, playing 196 games and winning three Premierships (1888, 1889, 1890). Beyond the field, he was known as a valued community leader and role model.

JOHN YATES AWARD RECIPIENTS

Former player Troy Luff and long-serving administrator Greg Harris were presented with the John Yates Award for their outstanding contributions to the club and the development of Australian Rules Football in New South Wales.

Luff played 155 games for the Swans between 1990 and 2001 and featured in the club’s 1996 Grand Final side. Still playing footy, he this year notched up an incredible 600th game for UNSW-Eastern Suburbs. Harris played across three football codes — Australian Football, Rugby Union, and Rugby League — all based at the SCG. He was best known for his work with the Swans as Chairman of the Match Committee under legendary coach Ron Barassi. He was also central to NSW's historic VFA win in 1987 and 1988 State of Origin.

SWANS HERITAGE LIST

Three significant moments were added to the Swans Heritage List:

  • The iconic "Here it is!" moment after the 2005 Grand Final victory
  • The 2005 Tickertape Parade, celebrating the end of a 72-year Premiership drought
  • The documentary Shaking Down the Thunder, produced by Endemol Shine Australia and released this year to mark 20 years since that historic win.

LIFE MEMBERSHIP HONOURS

Jad Maserow, Barb Cullen and Greg Miller were awarded Life Membership of the Sydney Swans for their lasting contributions.

Maserow, the club's current Head of Business Development has dedicated 15 years of service to the club and carried out various roles in the commercial department in that time. Aside from the amazing results that Jad produces in his role, it is the role that he plays behind the scenes that sets him apart. No job is too big nor small for Jad. He is a mentor to many and takes great pride in the development of his peers.

Cullen, the club’s long-time historian, has dedicated more than 20 years to preserving Swans history. She was awarded an OAM in 2023 for her service to AFL heritage.

Miller, who played 52 games for South Melbourne, became the club’s first full-time recruiting officer in 1979 and played a pivotal role in the Swans’ relocation to Sydney.

FROM THE CEO

Sydney Swans CEO Tom Harley congratulated those who were honoured at this year’s Swans Hall of Fame.

“Honouring our past as a football club is hugely important to us. Nights like this are among the most meaningful on our calendar,” Harley said.

“To the family of ‘Sonny’ Elms, congratulations on his elevation to Champion status. Winning four premierships in such a short time is an extraordinary achievement.

“I also congratulate Nick, Ben, Rhyce, and the late Harry on their well-deserved Hall of Fame inductions. Each has made a profound and lasting impact on our club.

“To Luffy and Greg Harris, thank you for your contributions to football in NSW and to the Swans’ legacy.

“And to Jad, Barb and Greg Miller, our newest Life Members — thank you for your outstanding service. Your commitment continues to shape our story.”