Sydney Swans coach Dean Cox has thrown his support behind bringing an AFL pre-season match back to Newcastle, suggesting it could be the catalyst needed to fast-track a major upgrade of the city's No.1 Sportsground. The Swans are currently in the Hunter region for a three-day community camp aimed at inspiring future talent.
Community Camp Ignites Local Passion
The Swans' visit, which began on Monday, December 1, 2025, saw hordes of young fans descend on No.2 Sportsground for a clinic and autograph session. Local juniors turned AFL stars, Isaac Heeney and Max King, were among the players meeting the crowd. The camp continues with school visits and will conclude with an open training session at No.1 Sportsground on Wednesday morning.
Cox expressed his enthusiasm for returning elite AFL action to the inner-city venue, which regularly hosted Swans pre-season matches in the late 1990s and early 2000s. "I would love to see it," Cox told the Newcastle Herald. He suggested the match could be an intra-club fixture or part of the official AFL pre-season program.
The Facility Hurdle and Upgrade Plans
The major obstacle is the current state of No.1 Sportsground. While an $8 million first stage of works was completed in 2022, expanding the playing surface and installing new floodlights, the venue still falls short of modern elite sporting standards.
Newcastle Council has development approval for a crucial second stage: a $3.65 million extension to the grandstand. However, this project remains in the planning phase. A council spokesperson confirmed they are "continuing to progress plans" for a redevelopment that would allow the ground to host local, regional, and elite fixtures.
Cox believes committing to a pre-season game could create positive pressure. "It actually promotes the community... to get the facilities and everything up to scratch," he said. "If we can raise that awareness and help get that done, well then we'll certainly try."
Hunter Talent and Participation on the Rise
The Swans' Newcastle push coincides with significant growth for the code in the region. The AFL has announced record participation in NSW and the ACT for 2025, with a 10% year-on-year increase to 78,000. In the Hunter Central Coast, participation has surged by an impressive 17%.
The recent drafting of Cardiff product Max King, following in the footsteps of Isaac Heeney, highlights the local talent pipeline. Cox praised the dedication of both players and their families, noting the long drives to Sydney for academy training. "Having those local players be the face... promotes youth that want to be like Isaac," Cox said, emphasising the importance of providing a platform for development.
The Swans' open training at No.1 Sportsground is scheduled for Wednesday, December 3, from 8am to 11am, followed by a 30-minute autograph session.
