A New Era for the Sydney Swans
Sydney speedster Justin McInerney has praised Simon Goodwin for the impressive start the Swans have made in the AFL season. Goodwin, who was appointed director of coaching and performance at Sydney after leaving Melbourne last year, is set to face his former team when the Demons travel to the SCG on Sunday.
McInerney believes that Goodwin has been “amazing” for the Swans, who have returned to flag contention after missing the finals last year. He said that a lot of the credit for their strong performance this year comes from Goodwin’s influence.
“It’d be rude not to say that a lot of credit for our game this year has come from him,” McInerney told AAP of Goodwin. “The way that he’s taught us and coached us on the roles, he’s given us a different aspect.”
McInerney, who is having a career-best season by taking more responsibility in the midfield, immediately clicked with Goodwin.
In January, Goodwin highlighted McInerney as a player to watch this season. He mentioned several other players, including Callum Mills, Isaac Heeney, Nick Blakey, and Dane Rampe, who are all performing well and receiving deserved recognition. However, Goodwin also noted that McInerney stands out for his football IQ.
“(Callum) Mills, (Isaac) Heeney, (Nick) Blakey, (Dane) Rampe, these guys are outstanding and get all the credit they deserve,” Goodwin told Sydney’s media department. “But I’ve been really impressed with some of the football IQ, of Justin McInerney, he’s one guy that stands out in that space.”
McInerney is averaging 25.6 disposals a game this year, showcasing his talent with three goals and 31 possessions in the opening-round win against Carlton. Learning from an established senior coach who was once a champion midfielder for Adelaide has been beneficial for his development.
“I sit down with him once or twice a week, and go through the game and then preview the week coming up,” McInerney said. “He’s been great for me and it’s really great to have him at the club.”
The Sydney Swans (6-1) are currently leading the ladder, but the Demons have been a surprise package this season, sitting fourth under new coach Steven King. Star Swans ruck Brodie Grundy, who had one season at Melbourne, will play his 250th game, having also played at Collingwood.
“His follow up is next to none,” McInerney said of Grundy. “He’s probably the best in the comp for follow-up ruckmen. Pushes forward, gets on the end of a couple of goals. We love him. He’s a different cat, but we love what he brings to the table.”
