Tom’s been with the Vietnam Swans for a few seasons and jets off from Vietnam in the very near future. We sat down with the lanky Irishman just after his final game, at the 2019 ANZAC Friendship Match.

Tom, why did you start playing footy?

I saw Aussie Rules on TV and liked it straight away. I then had the opportunity to play while in Canada. I discovered I loved the game of footy and never looked back!

I first played with the Ottawa Swans, part of AFL Ontario. They actually won their first flag last year and have also established a ladies team.

What was the hardest thing to adjust to?

I’d played Gaelic for about 5 years before taking up footy. Probably the physicality of the game and the aggression: it wasn’t something that I was used to!

What were the highlights of your time with the Vietnam Swans?

There’s a lot I could say here as I have had an amazing experience with the Vietnam Swans, but for me the number one highlight was the formation of the Lady Swans and watching them win the very first Asian Champs.

It’s great to see the sport growing and being able to witness a bit of Swannies history!

What will you miss when you’ve left the Swans?

The banter and the camaraderie of course, but especially the people. It’s been a great couple of seasons and it will be tough to say goodbye to the Swans family.

What won’t you miss once you’ve left the Swans?

Jetstar.

What’s next for you?

My girlfriend and I are moving to Spain this year. I’ll be sure to hunt down somewhere to have a kick!

Thanks Tom and we wish you good luck!

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Tom has been an influential member of the Vietnam Swans in Hanoi. The Irishman will be sorely missed, not only as an exceptional ruckman, but equally as a great friend and true clubman. He has been a privilege to coach, to play alongside and get to know. We wish him all the best in his future endeavours. Hanoi and Vietnam’s loss is undoubtedly Spain’s gain.