Tipperary’s Colin O’Riordan appointed as head of Sydney Swans academy
Colin O'Riordan during a Sydney Swans AFL training session in 2021 (Photo by Ryan Pierse/Getty Images)
Former Sydney Swans player and Tipperary star Colin O’Riordan has been appointed Head Coach of the QBE Sydney Swans Academy.
O'Riordan retired at the end of the 2022 season due to a hip injury having played 34 games for the club but has been based in Sydney ever since. He spent this season working with their AFLW side and was hailed as a crucial figure in their drive to a first-ever finals appearance.
“It’s pretty special. I came here in 2015 and it was a bit of a journey initially, I never envisioned myself being in this role. I fell in love with the place and it’s a massive honour and I’m really proud,” O’Riordan said.
“Short term goal is to get to know the kids and their families, get them to understand what professional standards look like and just give them the best opportunity to succeed.”
Underage the 28-year-old was a dual player for Tipperary. He returned and played for his county in 2020 as they claimed a famous Munster title. The club’s Executive General Manager, Leon Cameron, hailed O’Riordan’s addition.
“Colin is a wonderful young coach and someone who is incredibly passionate about teaching others. We have been extremely impressed with his work in the AFLW program where he has demonstrated leadership, a tremendous work ethic and exemplary football knowledge – which is even more impressive given he has only been in our industry since 2015,” Cameron said.
“We’re thrilled to be able to elevate Colin to this role and look forward to watching him nurture our up-and-coming talent.”
O’Riordan is not the only Irishman in such a role. Kerry’s Tadhg Kennelly was appointed head coach of the GWS Giants academy last year.
