- Oct 17, 2016
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We will do the same thing other AFL teams whose reserves play in the VFL - have players signed on VFL contracts to fill up the squad. Maybe the odd current U18 Academy player gets a game, but for the most part I would see it as a continuation of the pathway from the Academy to senior football for players who don't immediately get drafted to the AFL at 18.
It could be a good opportunity for overage academy players to continue their development in the swans system whilst playing at a decent level. And it is a chance to prove themselves if they can perform against VFL clubs and AFL reserve players.
Being a top up player for Swans/GWS could end up being a viable AFL pathway for overage NSW players rather than having to move to the SANFL and WAFL because it is a chance to get noticed by 14 AFL clubs.