The three players from AFL Sydney recruited by the Sydney Swans in the recent Rookie Draft have made good progress in their first few months with the club.
Former UNSW/ES Bulldogs star and 2012 Phelan Medallist, Dane Rampe, has been impressive since being invited to train with the club during pre-season and then earning a spot on the rookie list.
In the club’s first 3km time trial in November (with the 1-3 year players) Rampe finished in second place behind Alex Johnson and then backed it up in the most recent 3km time trial two weeks ago where he finished third behind Dan Hannebery and Alex Johnson.
The Swans coaches have been impressed with his attitude, elite fitness levels and strong work ethic. He has continually been among the top performers in all pre-season tests thus far. If he continues to work hard it is hoped he may get a taste of senior football this year and take the next step up. Rampe has adjusted to the life of a professional footballer seamlessly and is well liked among the group.
Former North Shore ruckman, Sam Naismith has settled in well to life as an AFL footballer. Last year he spent a bit of time training with the ruck coaches so he got a good understanding then of what life is like as a professional athlete. Sam has been working hard during the pre-season learning from Shane Mumford, Mike Pyke and Kurt Tippett so he is in good hands. Sam has a lot of developing to do but he has terrific attributes and is a great athlete so he’ll have every opportunity to develop and learn in the Swans Reserves this year.
Brandon Jack, formerly of Pennant Hills, has also settled in nicely to life as a Swan alongside his brother Kieren. Brandon possesses excellent pace and he has been working hard over the off-season to improve in this area along with his fitness and all-round skills. Brandon will be given every opportunity to develop and improve over the off-season in his first pre-season with an AFL club.
Last Modified on 30/01/2013 15:00
