Completing the first move of the AFL free agency period, Sydney welcomes Melbourne midfielder James Jordon. Jordon has to his name 65 games for the Demons, and despite being an unused substitute in their 2021 premiership side, he had reached his eligibility for free agency after being delisted and re-rookied at the end of 2020.
Sydney also greeted Joel Hamling on the first day of the free agency window, with Fremantle confirming that the 30-year-old defender had decided to join them. Hamling, a former Western Bulldogs premiership player, had a stint comprising of only six senior games in four years. The result of injury struggles and the rise of Alex Pearce and Brennan Cox in the key defensive sequences, his signing is set to bolster Sydney’s defence.
The opening day of free agency also witnessed the West Coast Eagles secure Giants’ ruckman Matt Flynn. Intent on handing over their No.1 ruck duties to the 26-year-old, the Eagles plan to direct Bailey Williams upfront to strengthen aerial support for Oscar Allen.
Flynn spent five seasons on the Giants’ roster before standing out as a valuable tap ruckman in his 33 games, eventually being superseded by prospect Kieren Briggs midway through the season. The Giants are set for an end-of-round two compensation pick (currently No. 40) for Flynn.
22-year-old Jordon had a fluctuating term with Melbourne, being kept out of three consecutive games before replacing Angus Brayshaw in the semi-final loss to Carlton. The Demons will get an end-of-second-round compensation pick for Jordon, currently pick 39.
Having showcased tremendous agility either on a wing or at half-forward at AFL tier, Jordon had also gained compliments as a centre-bounce midfielder in his four games at Casey this season. His record includes 34 disposals, five tackles and a goal a game, including a remarkable 41-disposal performance against the GWS reserves in June.
The new addition comes into play as the Swans aim to strengthen their midfield game after a wavering season. This is particularly critical as co-captain Callum Mills is nursing a damaged rotator cuff due to a freaky Mad Monday incident. Brodie Grundy, Jordon’s teammate, is also anticipated to join him at Sydney during the trade period starting Monday.
Swans’ football chief Charlie Gardiner lauds Jordon’s running prowess and versatility as significant selling points. “We believe in James’ bright future and feel he will make a strong contribution to our midfield squad. He comes with a history of performing in a successful programme like Melbourne, convincing us he will better our ranks,” Gardiner commented, brimming with optimism for welcoming Jordon into the club.
