The formula that helps Sydney’s fresh-faced forwards find their feet at AFL level so quickly is simple: strong leadership and the tutelage of legend Lance Franklin.
Franklin returned from a bruised heel last weekend and will spearhead the Swans’ push for a top-four spot on Saturday, when they face Brisbane at the Gabba.
However, the superstar’s three-week absence wasn’t the cause for crisis that many predicted.
Sydney recorded away wins over Geelong and Hawthorn during that stretch, with 19-year-old Will Hayward kicking three goals in each game. Ben Ronke, playing in his third match, booted seven goals against the Hawks.
Youngsters Isaac Heeney and Tom Papley have also been a regular source of goals for John Longmire’s team this year, while Oliver Florent and Robbie Fox have also stepped up in their second season at the club.
“Once you get here it doesn’t take long to realise what’s required to play. We’ve got some of the best leaders in the game and they really drive the standards,” Hayward told reporters on Thursday.
“It gives you no choice but to buy in, I think that’s why there is always a few young boys playing.”
Franklin’s words of advice – on the field and off it – have also helped.
“He’s unbelievable. He takes you under his wing, he’s really approachable,” Hayward said.
“Even when he wasn’t playing, he’d come into the rooms at halftime and talk to us. He always has an insight and his knowledge of the game is obviously second to none.
“Whether he’s playing or not, he’s such a great person to have around the club.
“I think I heard Benny Ronke saying (to Franklin that) you’ll be struggling to get a game if I’m kicking seven every week, it’s good that he’s back.”
The Swans’ forward line prides itself on applying fierce pressure, something Hayward suggested was also the Lions’ strength in their last-start upset victory over Hawthorn.
“They’ve obviously had a good win last week and that just makes us a lot more hungrier and eager to get up there and try to get the job done,” Hayward said.
“They’re playing really good footy.”
