Sydney Swans Aim for Rare All-Australian Feat in 2024

Sydney is on track to achieve a rare milestone in the AFL, with the team potentially having five or more players named in the All-Australian side by the end of the year. This feat has only been accomplished 15 times since the competition became national in 1991.

Key Players in Contention

In AFL.com.au's mid-season All-Australian team, the Swans had four players selected:

• Isaac Heeney: Brownlow Medal favorite and one of five unanimous selections.

• Chad Warner: Another Brownlow contender, chosen by eight out of nine reporters.

• Errol Gulden: Received seven selections.

• Nick Blakey: Dashing defender, selected by eight reporters.

Additional Contenders

• Brodie Grundy: Pushing for his first All-Australian blazer since 2019 as the No.1 ruck.

• Will Hayward, Ollie Florent, James Rowbottom: Mentioned as players to watch in the second half of the season.

Historical Context

If the Swans achieve this milestone, they will join an elite group. Here’s a look at past teams with five or more All-Australian selections in a season:

Implications

Having five or more All-Australian players usually signals a successful season, but it doesn't guarantee a premiership. Out of the 15 teams with this many selections:

• Six won the premiership.

• Five lost the Grand Final.

• Four didn't make it to the final game of the season.

The Sydney Swans are in a strong position to set a new club record for All-Australian selections. With several key players in contention, they have the potential to join the ranks of some of the greatest teams in AFL history. As the season progresses, all eyes will be on these players to see if they can secure their spots in the All-Australian team and help lead the Swans to a successful year.