For the first time in his storied AFL career, Lance Franklin has been named in a leadership group.
The Swans announced a similar looking leadership team for the 2020 season, led by their three captains Josh Kennedy, Luke Parker and Dane Rampe.
However, Franklin steps in alongside young defender Callum Mills.
Buddy went through his entire Hawthorn tenure and his first six years at the Swans without being in the leadership group, but coach John Longmire is confident he will be a strong contributor.
“Lance has been elevated by the players in recognition of the huge investment he has made in the team. I’ve no doubt he will be a valuable addition to our leadership group,” Longmire told the club’s website.
“We have a number of emerging leaders across the team, and so while we have reduced the leadership group from eight members to five, opportunities and responsibilities will continue to present for others.
“With nine new players and a new facility on the horizon we have a lot to be excited about in season 2020, so I’m looking forward to watching our players progress in the year ahead.”
Despite never having been in a leadership group previously, Franklin was named captain of the 2018 All-Australian team.