NEWLY-appointed co-captain Matt Caldow says South Barwon is leaving nothing to chance in its quest to return to finals action.
The Swans missed the top five in 2019 after snapping a five-year finals drought the year before, and the former Ocean Grove utility is keen for a quick return to September action.
“I think we are taking every measure we can to mix with the big boys,” Caldow, who will share the role with Darcy Hansen, said.
“We are training hard and that is certainly the goal for this year to crack in and play finals footy.”
South has been one of the most active clubs adding eight new faces.
They include Jackson Carrick (Darley), Jarrod Duncan (Lavington/Xavier College/Murray Bushrangers), Noah Kol (South Warrnambool), Josh O’Dwyer (Numurkah), James Parsons (Geelong), Jake Peters (Warrack Eagles), Austin Shepherd (Albury) and Ben Simpson (North Ballarat City).
Former Geelong rookie Michael Luxford has also returned to McDonald Reserve.
“We have got some really good characters in,” Caldow said. “It’s looking good football-wise, and we are just excited to get into it.
“The training track has been good; everyone is fighting for their spot.”
In terms of games played, Caldow will be one of the least experienced captains in GFL history when he leads the Swans out against North Shore in Round 1, with Hansen sidelined due to a thumb injury.
Despite being appointed vice-captain for the 2020 season, Caldow wasn’t expecting to be elevated to the top job.
“No, not at all; I always just try and be the best I can be and then if that translates to the rest of the group, then that is good,” he said.
Twitter: @tom_king79
