STIFLING conditions greeted the Sydney Swans' big names on day one of their 2016 pre-season campaign on Tuesday, with temperatures reaching 35 degrees before 11am.
All eyes were on star forward Lance Franklin, who was back on the track for the first time since early September, after taking a break to seek treatment for an ongoing mental health issue.
2015 All Australian Dan Hannebery, star midfielder Luke Parker, key defender Heath Grundy and the club's International Rules representative Nick Smith joined Franklin and a group of experienced Swans to start their pre-season
Parker showed no ill effects of the broken ankle that forced him to miss the club's finals campaign, with the players enjoying a light 30-minute session of goal kicking and marking drills in blazing sunshine.
Young guns Isaac Heeney and James Rose trained earlier in the morning with the Swans' new recruits, including academy product and No.3 overall draft pick Callum Mills.
Among the group was 18-year-old Tyrone Leonardis, who had his draft experience ruined when it was revealed he had liked two separate groups on social media that were created to defame Swans legend Adam Goodes.
Leonardis, taken with the Swans' second selection and pick 51 overall in last week's NAB AFL draft, is a speedy defender/midfielder who was recruited for his quality ball use by foot.
Coach John Longmire said the Swans' leadership team was yet to speak to Leonardis regarding his social media gaffe, but the club had made their feelings known to the Northern Knights product.
"It's one of those educational things as far as social media (is concerned) and the do's and don'ts (when using it), and he's had a pretty steep learning curve," Longmire said.
"It's tough enough to start at a footy club without that (happening) and he's certainly found it tough to start having to deal with that as well.
"He's learned a few lessons."
Swans co-captain Kieren Jack back on the track on Tuesday. Picture: AFL Media
All smiles for Isaac Heeney on the track. Picture: AFL Media
