Buddy Franklin kicked off his first pre-season as a Sydney Swan in impressive form as coach John Longmire reaffirmed the star recruit’s transition to a new football culture has come without concern.
One of biggest free agency gets in AFL history, Buddy is set to make his debut as a Swan in February after signing a nine-year, $10-million deal to leave the premiership winning Hawks for a fresh start to his football career.
Franklin impressed in his first on-field workout with the Swans, one of the first key position players to complete Monday’s time trial.
The 26-year-old looked in fantastic shape training with his new teammates and appeared to be down on last year’s playing weight.
Coach Longmire dismissed any concerns Buddy’s fit with the fame Swans’ culture and playing group had been an issue.
“We have had no problem with him settling into the group,” Longmire said.
“Now he is into the full swing of training he will have a real solid hit-out for the next couple of weeks and prepare well for next season.
“Buddy is like every other player here. There are expectations on every player on our list to prepare well and train well on and off the field.”
It is believed Buddy’s move to Sydney was in part due to the extreme media attention he received as a Hawk in Melbourne, but Longmire believes that aspect of his career won’t change in 2014.
“He has accepted the fact he is going to have more attention on him, we know that and he knows that,” he said.
“There might not be a media conference this year when I’m not asked about him but that is just the reality of it.
“He has a high profile and that is part of what life has to be.
“He is obviously a wonderful player and we are looking forward to seeing what he can do on the training field, and I know the boys are looking forward to playing with him next season.“
Buddy Franklin and the AFL pre-season competition begins in February.
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