Swans defender Oliver Florent has signed a long-term deal with Sydney, committing to a five-year contract extension which sees him remain at the club till at least 2029.
There was speculation on Florent's future at the Harbourside Club as his contract was coming to an end this season, with family links to Melbourne and the Swans' salary cap squeeze potentially opening the door for the defender to be at a new club in 2025.
The 25-year-old was drafted to the Swans in 2016 as Pick 11 in the AFL draft and made his debut in Round 1, 2017. The defender has become one of the most consistent players for the Swans, having played 100 consecutive AFL games.
Florent is a crucial part of coach John Longmire's side due to his exceptional ball movement and elite run and carry off half-back. Last year he appeared in 24 games for the Swans, averaging 19.9 disposals a game.
The half-back expressed his excitement to remain at the Swans on a long-term deal.
“Being here for the next five years, that's something that's really special to me and my family,” Florent said in a club announcement.
“I am so grateful to have been given the opportunity to be at this footy club. It's a great bunch of boys, great coaching staff and just a beautiful place to be.
“Ultimately, I want to win a premiership … I want to be playing, be healthy, play my role, doing the team stuff and getting the wins on the board.”
Sydney Swans Executive General Manager Football, Leon Cameron, said Florent has become a key player for the Swans.
“Ollie is one of our most durable and important players in the side and we are so pleased he has decided to stay with the Swans long term,” Cameron said.
“His durability is something to be admired – having played 100 consecutive games is no mean feat and it's a testament to his preparation and the way he looks after himself.
“Ollie is only still a young man at the age of 25, so we believe he has a lot of upside for the rest of his career in Sydney and we can't wait to see him develop even more.”
This contract extension comes as Florent is about to play his 150th match this weekend for the Swans at the Sydney Derby against GWS.
