Written by Megan Taylor, sports reporter covering international sports since 2020
Sam Swadling AFL debut news has been confirmed, with Collingwood naming the West Perth product for Saturday’s AFL match against Port Adelaide at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.
The 19-year-old midfielder was selected with pick No.37 in the 2025 AFL Draft after a standout colts season at West Perth, where he averaged 35 disposals from seven games and won the club’s fairest and best award. His debut matters because Collingwood are adding another young ball-winner to their mix for a major home fixture at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.
For more AFL contract news, read Toby Greene Contract Talk No Concern For Adam Kingsley As Greater Western Sydney Wait On Captain, while official fixture details are available through the AFL match centre.
Swadling Earns His Chance
Swadling has carried his high-possession game into the VFL, averaging more than 26 disposals across nine matches.
His best return came against Sydney, where he collected 40 disposals and kicked his first goal. That form had already put him close to selection, with Collingwood naming him as an emergency for the King’s Birthday clash before the bye.
Coach Craig McRae said Collingwood had told Swadling of his debut before training.
“We just announced it before we trained today, he’s a really exciting kid from WA,” he said.
“He’s a really talented young man, so he’ll play a bit of midfield, a bit of forward and everywhere really, he’s capable of doing that, he’s that talented.
“He’s got good energy, and we’re excited to see that in a Collingwood jumper for the first time.”
West Perth Talent Ready For Big Stage
Swadling arrives with a strong ball-winning profile and the flexibility to play through midfield or forward.
He also spoke last year about joining a list filled with players he had watched closely, including Scott Pendlebury.
“I’m literally going to work and I’m going to be surrounded by so many blokes that I’ve idolised over the years. I can’t wait to get stuck in, get to know everyone and let everyone get to know me as well,” he told The West Australian last year.