The No.1 pick from the 2010 AFL Draft experienced a frustrating 2012 season, after a knee injury in Round 7 saw the former WAFL star watch on from the sidelines before returning in Round 16 for just five matches before being ruled out for the remainder of the season.
But after a strong pre-season under new High Performance Manager Stephen Schwerdt, the hard-working midfielder is fit and raring to play, saying his training over the summer has been his most impressive off-season since arriving to Metricon Stadium.
“The first two pre-seasons I probably struggled a bit, but I’ve definitely managed to put together a strong performance over the summer,” Swallow said.
But despite the future AFL star being the part of the nucleus of an exciting midfield, Swallow admits remaining in the side will be no easy task.
“Seeing Harley (Bennell) play well last year was awesome, and with the addition of Jaeger (O’Meara) and Jesse (Lonergan), I would like to play all 22 games and cement my place in the middle of the ground.”
Swallow said the NAB Cup would be a great opportunity for the squad to build confidence and play great team football ahead of the 2013 AFL Season.
“The draw is good for us… Who knows, if we get some early wins and are in a good position midway through the year, we certainly might be able to have a crack at making the Finals (top 8),” Swallow said.
“We’re really just looking to prove we belong in the competition, and win as many games as possible.”
