The 2022 AFL Season has been rich in feel-good, heartwarming moments since the beginning of the year and amongst a lot of negativity circling the AFL world, it seems right to look back on some of the best moments from this season thus far.
From players returning from injury to goals after the siren, we here at Zero Hanger have compiled a list of 10 of the very best stories of the year.
This list is in no particular order and is here to reflect on some of the best moments and, as always, let us know which is your favourite from this season.
McCartin marvels in heartwarming return season
Another return after years on the sidelines, Paddy McCartin's career resurgence at the Swans has been inspiring to watch.
The former pick one was drafted to St Kilda in the 2014 AFL National Draft, where he'd only feature 35 times and suffered a cruel eight concussion from 2014-2019.
McCartin was delisted at the end of the 2019 season to deal with issues surrounding the concussions, and doubts were placed over whether he would ever play AFL again.
McCartin returned to football in 2021, linking up with the Sydney Swans VFL team and joining his younger brother Tom in Sydney.
After an impressive season at VFL, McCartin was signed by the Sydney Swans during the pre-season supplemental selection period and since then, hasn't missed a beat as an intercept defender.
McCartin has played in all but one game this year for the Swans and has been regularly impressing with his intercept abilities in the back half.
The 26-year-old averages 13.4 disposals and 3.8 intercept marks per game (in which he ranks elite), and is easily in the top handful of intercept defenders in 2022.
After playing his 50th game last weekend, seeing McCartin playing consistent football and seemingly enjoying it is a great site for AFL fans.
From having his career feared to be over to a genuine star of the competition, McCartin's journey is the definition of heartwarming and we hope he'll tick off more career milestones in coming seasons.
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