WITH the 2021 AFL Draft done and dusted, Rookie Me Central takes a look through each clubs’ hauls to assess the areas they bolstered and what each fresh face promises to bring to their new side. Next under the microscope is Sydney, who pulled one of the surprises of night one, but added plenty of competitiveness and running power in a four-man crop.

National Draft selections:

#18 Angus Sheldrick (Claremont/Western Australia)
#34 Matthew Roberts (South Adelaide/South Australia)
#40 Corey Warner (East Fremantle/Western Australia)
#58 Lachlan Rankin (Oakleigh Chargers/Vic Metro)

Rookie Draft selections:

#10 Lewis Taylor (re-listed)

Many have come to expect the unexpected from Sydney’s early picks, and the Swans were true to that sentiment with their first round selection. The addition of Angus Sheldrick proved a tone-setter for the Swans’ overall haul, with the West Australian offering a strong competitive will and consistent ball winning ability through midfield.

Shifting to night two, and Matthew Roberts was another similar pick at 34. The South Australian was once touted as a first round talent but slid down the order, proving an ideal target for Sydney with his work rate and capacity to play a variety of roles outside of midfield. He’ll likely start as a high half-forward or wingman, and has noted senior experience.

Further compounding the theme of gut-runners was the selection of Corey Warner, the brother of now fellow Swan, Chad. The younger sibling offers different traits, proving a balanced ball winner on the inside and outer, but standing out most with his driving runs on the attack. He was also the third of three left-footers Sydney brought in.

Rounding out the Swans’ fresh faces was Lachlan Rankin, their only selection from the Victorian pool. Much like those picked before him, competitiveness is a key trait Rankin brings to the fore and he can do a job for the team on each line. He somewhat flew under the radar in 2021, but boasts wickedly clean hands and kicking skills on both sides.

Lewis Taylor was Sydney’s lone rookie selection, re-listed by the club. Overall, the Swans’ long-term midfield depth was accounted for with players who will likely win fans over in quick time and suit the strong standards of Sydney’s culture. They all run hard, can find possessions aplenty, and will give 100 per cent each week.