Every fan's question leading into the new season is 'What should I expect of my club in 2025?'
For some, it will be, and rightfully so, staking their claim as genuine contenders for the premiership.
For others, it will likely be to avoid the wooden spoon.
Irrespective of yesteryear's highs and lows, with the new year comes a new outlook that all 18 clubs can push for the ultimate glory, and 2025 is no different.
Thus, we examine where each side sits in terms of their respective 'premiership window' on various levels: wide open, opening, closing, and locked shut.
Sydney
Open
It is hard to see a grand finalist drop dramatically from one year to the next, and in Sydney's case, it should be near impossible given their list.
The Swans have feasibly become the AFL's destination club, with location and consistent premiership contention playing major factors.
A pair of grand final losses in three years shouldn't deter the 'Bloods' from remaining near the top of the table, albeit the desire to get there can make or break a club's spirit after getting so close.
Sydney ranks middle tier for age (25 years) and top-four for experience (82.8 games) but has a wealth of young stars who are taking the game by storm.
Former captain Dane Rampe is likely the only player who would even contemplate retiring, meaning new head coach Dean Cox can plan for the now and the future.
Since 1996, the Swans have gone on holiday early on five occasions, making the finals an impressive 24 times since.
And there's no suggestion that trend won't continue.
