AFL 2023: Sydney Swans lock away Nick Blakey until 2031 in huge new deal

Sydney playmaker Nick Blakey has signed an enormous seven-year contract extension to keep him at the Swans until the end of 2031.

The 23-year-old, who was dominant for the Swans in their round 11 victory over Carlton, has signed the longest contract extension in the competition, with Carlton spearhead Harry McKay and Melbourne midfielder Clayton Oliver both under contract until 2030.

The Swans Academy graduate has played as both a key defender and in his preferred rebounding role this season while injuries wreaked havoc on Sydney’s defence.

Blakey said he was “humbled” to receive such a lengthy contract offer from the club.

““This is my home. I grew up supporting this club, so to be here for a while longer is very nice, and I’m very excited for the future,” he said.

“I can’t see myself playing football anywhere else, so to be here for another eight years, with next year as well, is exciting. I’m very humbled that the club is signing me on for that long.

“Our team is all so close. We’re really good mates and we’re building something special, so hopefully this group sticks together, and we can do some exciting things in the future.”

The son of North Melbourne champion John Blakey, the 196cm defender could have elected to join the Kangaroos or Fitzroy under the father-son rule ahead of the 2018 draft, but nominated for the Swans, who matched a GWS bid to take him at pick 10.

Sydney football boss Charlie Gardiner said Blakey was a “very important part” of the Swans’ young list, and praised his work ethic to transform himself into a running defender after playing junior football as a forward.

“He has some unique talents on field and has worked incredibly hard to overcome injuries over the past couple of years to turn himself into a high-quality defender and provide enormous flexibility to the team,” Gardiner said.

“Nick has a very strong connection with the club having come through our Academy program as a talented junior and is a much-loved figure among his teammates and our staff.

“He brings great energy and enthusiasm and I’m sure our fans and supporters will continue to enjoy watching him play in the years ahead.”

Sydney also extended the contract of young on-baller Angus Sheldrick until the end of 2025.

The Swans already have co-captain Callum Mills (2029) and Isaac Heeney and Tom Papley (both 2028) on significant long-term deals.

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