Swallows miss out on Cinderella story
ANDREW Swallow was prepared to join Gold Coast as a rookie and largely spend 2018 in the NEAFL in order to join brother David at the Suns.
Manager of the both brothers, Colin Young, said it was a shame the “Cinderella story” of former North Melbourne captain Andrew, 30, and David, 24, playing together never eventuated.
Andrew announced his retirement on Thursday after Gold Coast decided not to bring the Kangaroos player to Queensland. Young said the presence of multiple midfielders of similar age including Michael Rischitelli, 31, Michael Barlow, 29 and Matt Rosa, 30, proved a roadblock too big to pass for the Suns.
“They certainly are looking for youth ... they just had a few players his age,” he said.
Young said it could have been a win-win for both parties with Swallow’s motivations for a potential move to the Suns centred around providing experience to young list while supporting David who is expecting his first child with partner Georgie Homer.
“From mine, Andrew and David’s perspective we thought it was a win for the club,” Young said.
“He is a three-time best and fairest, has played finals and David’s partner is pregnant.
“The first year with the first child you have is a bit scary.
“For Andrew to go up there and give his experience – even as a rookie – and teach the youngsters and be there for his brother with the baby, I thought it was a win for everyone. The club at the last minute felt it probably wasn’t the best thing for them so it didn’t eventuate in the end.
“Dave was really disappointed that it didn’t eventuate, he would have loved it. But you move on.”
Young said Swallow was open to helping mould the younger Suns players in the NEAFL while providing depth for the senior side.
“Andrew wasn’t coming to play senior footy,” Young said.
“He was coming to play NEAFL, give his experience and if there was an opportunity there where they had massive injuries then he could slot straight in and help.
“It was going to be a Cinderella finish to his career playing with his brother. He could play two or three years there is no doubt about that.”
Young said Swallow was still open to joining the Gold Coast during the upcoming rookie draft.