U19 Div 1

Former Swans Premier Joins SUANFC in 2018

Former Sydney Swan premiership player Craig Bird has become Sydney University’s first NEAFL signing for the 2018 season.

The former Sydney and Essendon midfielder was delisted by the Bombers this year after 157 AFL games across both clubs.

Originally from Nelson Bay, Bird first joined Sydney with the 59th pick in the 2007 AFL Draft, and was named joint-winner of the club’s Rising Star Award alongside Kieren Jack in 2008.

Bird was part of Sydney’s 2012 premiership triumph before being traded to Essendon in 2016.

Speaking with the Club prior to signing his 2018 contract, Bird spoke of his excitement returning to Sydney, along with joining the Students’ established football program.

“The opportunity that a scholarship provides, to complete study while starting work was something I was interested in doing. Sydney University has a good system in place for that,” said Bird.

“The football program they have built over the past few years is very strong… there are a lot of good players here.”

SUANFC NEAFL Coach Tom Morrison welcomed Bird to the club, and is looking forward to adding his experience and leadership to the NEAFL squad.

“We are really excited to add Craig to our group. He is a local NSW athlete, an AFL premiership player and quality person of outstanding character,” said Morrison.

“Craig has a strong desire to have success with our group of players as well as help fast track the development of our young local Sydney talent.”

“Craig will fit into the group seamlessly, he not only brings experience he is also a highly competitive player with great leadership attributes.”

 

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