SYDNEY'S first pick at last year's NAB AFL Draft, Matthew Ling, has committed to a one-year contract extension with the club.
Ling, taken with selection No.14, will now be with the Swans until at least the end of the 2020 season.
The 18-year-old was targeted by the Swans because of his speed and quality foot skills – something they've tried to add at the past two draft nights – and has been earmarked as a future star across half-back.
The former Geelong Falcon has been sidelined with a toe injury in recent weeks and missed the JLT Community Series, but is expected to return to the field in the next fortnight.
He told the Swans website he's enjoyed learning from some of the club's biggest stars including fellow left-footers Dan Hannebery and Dane Rampe.
"I've spent a lot of time with Dan because he hasn't been training, and 'Ramps' has been helping out with my defensive work," he said.
"Last year playing in the TAC Cup and watching the AFL, you want to be there, and now to be training with them every day is pretty special."
Sydney's head of football Tom Harley said the club was excited to have Ling join Isaac Heeney, Callum Mills, Will Hayward, Zak Jones, Oliver Florent, Jordan Dawson, Lewis Melican and Darcy Cameron to have committed to the club recently.
"From the moment Matt joined the Swans, he settled in so well and showed to everyone that he's got a bright future ahead," Harley said.
"We think Matt will be a great player for us – he's quick, agile and skilful on his trusty left foot.
"We look forward to watching Matt's development in the years to come and seeing him run, carry and take the game on across half-back."