Sydney Swans women's team shatters attendance record amid club scandal
Sydney Swans AFLW captain Lucy McEvoy praised a crowd of 16,672 at the SCG, more than double the previous record, while the club wrestles with a drinking scandal and a police sexual-assault probe.
In a landmark double-header at the Sydney Cricket Ground, the Sydney Swans AFLW team attracted 16,672 fans, more than twice the previous club record of 8,264. Captain Lucy McEvoy expressed amazement at the turnout and highlighted the team's unity after a 24-point victory over Essendon. The women's match was the second premiership-point game at the venue and the first paired with the men's side.
Meanwhile, five male Swans players—Isaac Heeney, Nick Blakey, Chad Warner, Riley Bice and James Jordon—were stood down for violating club drinking rules, and Victoria's sexual crimes squad opened an investigation into an alleged non-consensual touch by a player. Some spectators, including longtime fan Lulu Clarke, exited before the men's game in protest of the scandal. Former Matilda Sarah Walsh also left after the women's match, emphasizing broader societal issues rather than a club-specific problem. Fans displayed signs such as "I'm here for AFLW" to show their support for the women’s team.
Why it matters
The record crowd shows growing support for women's sport, but the club's off-field controversies risk damaging its reputation.
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