Pre-season is supposed to be the time for teams to gel and prepare for the challenges of the new season, but for the Sydney Swans, it has turned chaotic as injuries mar their preparations. During their recent match against Gold Coast at People First Stadium, the Swans faced significant setbacks with injuries to two of their key players.
Errol Gulden, touted as one of the rising stars of the AFL and a dual All-Australian, suffered an ankle injury early in the game. The incident occurred following a tackle from Gold Coast's Will Graham, which left Gulden writhing on the turf with visible agony. Trainers quickly rushed to his side as he was helped off the field with what early assessments suggest could be syndesmosis, commonly known as high ankle sprain. Ruby Schleicher from Fox Footy reported, "It looks like syndesmosis... best-case scenario it’s a couple of weeks, but worst case it’s a couple of months." This forecast raises fears for the Swans, who rely on Gulden’s creativity and skill as they head toward their season opener.
Adding to the woes, Gold Coast's Mac Andrew also exited the match, contending with chest pain, though he managed to pass concussion protocols. Schleicher remarked, "He did pass the concussion test, but he came back with chest pain," emphasizing the urgency surrounding his condition as well.
These injuries come at a particularly challenging time for the Swans, as they aim to start the season on strong footing. Their season opener is fast approaching, with the match scheduled against Hawthorn next Friday, and the absence of Gulden—along with other injured players—could disrupt their game plan significantly. Swans captain Callum Mills, who is already nursing a foot injury, will also miss the upcoming match, adding to Sydney's injury list. Brodie Grundy, their ruckman, also missed this clash due to a knee injury sustained during training earlier in the week. The good news is the club confirmed no structural damage for Grundy, but he will be assessed closer to match day.
Notably, the Sydney squad rested several players for the match against Gold Coast, including Isaac Heeney, Chad Warner, and Dane Rampe. This strategic decision to rest areas of their line-up reflects both the team's depth and awareness of the physical demands of pre-season matches. Despite the absence of these stars, the Swans made a blistering start, kicking the first four goals of the match and leading by ten points at quarter time. Their ability to get off to such a strong start highlights their potential, provided they can stay healthy and field their strongest possible line-up.
With the opening round just around the corner, the Swans must now contend with the harsh reality of injuries across their squad as they prepare to take on Hawthorn. Coach John Longmire will need to assess his options carefully as he develops strategies to cope with the absence of key players. The impact of Gulden’s injury could resonate throughout the team, as they look to establish momentum quickly entering the regular season.
Four other teams have also faced injury setbacks during the pre-season, highlighting the physical toll this phase of training can impose on players. Port Adelaide confirmed Zak Butters is out for at least six weeks following knee surgery, and Western Bulldogs captain Marcus Bontempelli faces similar sidelining. With injuries becoming more prevalent, the AFL's pre-season has taken on new significance as teams adjust and prep themselves physically and mentally to cope with the demands of the season.
All eyes will be on the Sydney Swans as they navigate through this unpredictable pre-season, hoping their stars can return sooner rather than later. With uncertainty surrounding Gulden’s ankle and the readiness of other injured players, it remains to be seen just how well the Swans can perform as they look forward to the challenges of the 2025 AFL season.