What went right?

Dual Brownlow Medallist Adam Goodes produced another stellar season in 2009. Goodes started the year in the midfield, finished it as a centre half-forward and dominated in both roles. He topped the Swans’ goalkicking charts and is not without a chance of emulating fellow Swan Bob Skilton by winning a third Brownlow.

A gaggle of young Bloods grabbed their chance with both hands. In Dan Hannebery, Nick Smith, Kristin Thornton and Jesse White, the Swans have unearthed a crop of young players who look set for a big future. It was the perfect answer to criticism that the Swans had failed to develop sufficient young talent to replace their ageing stars.

Sydney has long been a destination of choice for recycled footballers and speedy former Magpie Rhyce Shaw was no exception. He replaced departed Irishman Tadhg Kennelly across half back and enjoyed a career-best season as a running defender.

What went wrong

Barry Hall’s anger management woes finally came to a head after he was suspended for striking Adelaide’s Ben Rutten in round 13. After a fortnight of speculation, Hall and the Swans parted ways by mutual agreement, leaving the club bereft of forward experience.

The Swans simply couldn’t buy a win outside NSW for most of the season. Their first victory away from home came against Richmond at the MCG in round 19, but earlier road losses to St Kilda, Fremantle, Hawthorn and Adelaide had already cruelled the club’s finals hopes.

Lewis Johnston showed early promise in the reserves but the Swans’ first selection in the 2008 NAB AFL National Draft suffered a foot fracture that ruined his year. As it turned out, 2009 would have been a perfect chance for the No.12 pick to gain valuable experience but it wasn’t to be.

Most valuable player

Goodes is the player that the Swans cannot afford to lose. An inspirational leader with the skill and athleticism that wins matches, Goodes’ ability to play almost anywhere on the ground proved a bonus during the second half of the year when he filled a key forward post. Ryan O’Keefe, Craig Bolton, Brett Kirk and Jude Bolton also enjoyed fine seasons.

Coach's award for one-percenters

Most clubs would love a player with the commitment of Brett Kirk; the Swans have two of them when you include Jude Bolton. The blond onballer took his game to another level in 2009 and led the way in the first half of the season when the Swans were struggling for consistency. Bolton finished the year with a career-best 155 tackles and enhanced his reputation as a quality inside midfielder.

Needs a big pre-season

Patrick Veszpremi is one of the Swans’ most exciting talents but his fitness has proved a major stumbling block. After two years on the senior list marred by serious shoulder, groin and finger injuries, the small forward will be hoping for a clear run at 2010 and a chance to fulfil his potential.

Overall grade: B

The views in this story are those of the author and not necessarily those of the clubs or the AFL.