Sydney star Isaac Heeney says he already sees the influence of premiership coach Simon Goodwin on the club.
Goodwin was sacked by Melbourne before the end of the 2025 season, and was quickly linked to a move to New South Wales, with the Swans and Giants looking to snap up the decorated footy figure.
The Bloods won the battle for his signature, appointing him the Director of Coaching and Performance, but more importantly filling significant roles around senior coach Dean Cox.
The premiership coach’s role revolves around the development and growth in the Sydney coaching department, but according to Heeney, he’s started to make an impact elsewhere.
Wayne Campbell (Sydney Academy coaching, high performance, and operations) and Jeremy Laidler (forwards coach) are also new additions to the Swans for 2026.
“Pretty incredible,” Heeney said on Wednesday at the club’s community camp in Newcastle.
“Coxy was one or two coaches down over the last year, and it was a massive load on him.
“So now, for this pre-season, leading into next season with two extra coaches in Laids (Jeremy Laider) from the Giants and then Goody (Simon Goodwin), the knowledge and the way they communicate is second to none.
“It’s pretty impressive. When they do speak, it inspires you, which is something you want from a coach.
“A premiership-winning coach is something you don’t see much of, so to have him under Coxy, his knowledge, especially in attack, is second to none.
“It’s exciting, and he’s an amazing fella too.”
Aside from their coaching overhaul, Sydney saw plenty of player movement, headed by the acquisition of two-time Coleman medallist Charlie Curnow.
Curnow joined Cox’s side with Jai Serong and Malcolm Rosas, as well as six draftees, including Academy prospects Harry Kyle and Max King.
The club parted ways with 184-game pair Will Hayward and Ollie Florent, while Jack Buller sought more senior opportunities at Collingwood.
Sydney kick off their 2026 campaign with an Opening Round clash against Carlton at the SCG.