Brothers Tom and Paddy McCartin have signed contract extensions with the Sydney Swans, continuing one of the best AFL stories of the year.
Paddy has been a revelation this season after two years out of the AFL following the former No.1 draft pick's departure from St Kilda at the end of 2019 due to serious concussion issues.
After a year in the VFL, he joined his younger brother Tom in the Swans' defence to play a crucial role in Sydney's premiership push.
Tom, 22, has signed a four-year extension, ensuring he remains with Sydney until the end of 2027 while Paddy's future with the Swans is now secure until 2024.
Paddy, 26, was excited about signing the new deal ahead of the Swans' preliminary final at the SCG on September 17.
The key forward-turned defender was unsure if he would ever play another AFL game, let alone 22 in a season in a team contending for the flag.
"To get a couple more years is fantastic - it's a long way from where I was last year," Paddy said.
"I'm feeling good personally and loving my footy, and I feel really fortunate to be playing finals.
"For me and Tommy to be able to sign on together is really exciting and I'm looking forward to seeing what our team can do in the next few years."
Swans football manager Charlie Gardiner hailed Paddy's return to football as "remarkable".
"It has been a testament to his hard work and resilience and we are all incredibly proud of what he has been able to achieve since moving to Sydney two years ago," Gardiner said.
"To see him enjoying his football and getting the best out of himself is fantastic.
"Tom also deserves a huge amount of credit for the role he has played over the past few seasons.
"While he is still only 22 years of age, week in, week out he has been opposed to some of the best key forwards in the game and acquitted himself incredibly well."
Tom admitted he had loved playing alongside his older brother.
"To be able to have Paddy sign on with me is extra special," he said.
"He's worked really hard and we've been fortunate to play together this year, so it's a credit to him and the work he has put in to get another two years.
Meanwhile, Hawthorn midfielder Harry Morrison has been rewarded for a career-best season by signing a new two-year contract with the Hawks.
