SYDNEY has poached AFL national talent development coach Tanya Hetherington away from the League, with the former Giant taking up a role as the Swans AFLW forwards coach.

The 38-year-old – who retired last year after 46 games with the Giants – has spent the first portion of this year working with both the AFL and AFLW Academies, assisting Tarkyn Lockyer in implementing programs and coaching elite under-18 talent.

She has previously coached Diamond Creek in the then-VWFL prior to her AFLW career while rehabbing a torn ACL.

Former Swans hero Nick Davis – who has been working with the club's academies – will be Scott Gowans' senior assistant.

Tanya Hetherington (left) and Anthony Rocca are seen during an AFLW Academy training session at The Hangar on January 20, 2023. Picture: AFL Photos

Bronwyn Gulden will continue as an assistant coach, looking after the backline. She has also worked with the club's academies, coached in the AFL Sydney competition and is the mother of rising Swans star Errol.

Phoebe Carter will hold a dual role as development coach and AFLW analyst.

"We’re really excited about the upcoming season and have plenty of confidence in our entire coaching staff, including our new addition in Tanya Hetherington," Sydney head of AFLW Kate Mahony said.

"They not only each bring an elite footy IQ, but they have proven to build really strong relationships with their players.

"They also draw on their unique football experiences, and we hope that can have a profound impact on the entire playing group."

Sydney is yet to record a win in the AFLW, losing all 10 games last season, but added Chloe Molloy and Lucy McEvoy as priority signings before the trade period.