EXCITING key forward prospect Tom McCartin has celebrated his solid debut season by signing a two-year contract extension with Sydney.

The youngest player selected in last year's NAB AFL draft, 18-year-old McCartin's deal now ties him to the Swans until at least the end of the 2021 season.

McCartin wasn't expected to feature heavily at senior level this season, but with Sam Reid missing the majority of the year with injury, he helped provide a strong contest in attack alongside superstar teammate Lance Franklin in his 15 games.

Along with Tom Papley, Ben Ronke and Will Hayward, McCartin was one of a number of youngsters playing in the forward half for Sydney this year and impressed with his willingness to compete in the air.

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He said learning from Franklin on a weekly basis helped him in his first season.

"Being around the older boys like 'Buddy' and watching how they go about it and what it takes (to succeed) has been great, and I was able to play a few games this year," he said.

"I'm just looking to a big pre-season and improving on the things I need to get better at, and hopefully I can get a few again next year.

"I'm pumped and really excited to sign on for another two years."

Outgoing Sydney footy boss Tom Harley said McCartin showed this season that he had a bright future at the Swans, so the club was happy to lock him away early.

"For an 18-year-old to hold down a key-position post for more than half the season in his debut year is an unbelievable achievement," he said.
"We certainly saw a glimpse of his potential this year and look forward to seeing him develop further over the coming seasons as we think he’s going to be a really good player for us."

Veterans Jarrad McVeigh and Heath Grundy have also re-committed to the Swans in 2018, along with exciting backman Aliir Aliir, injured ruckman Sam Naismith, and speedy forwards Will Hayward and Ben Ronke.