Why former Swan believes Luke Parker's request to join North Melbourne is a “smart call”

The Sydney Swans received official confirmation on Wednesday that 293-game veteran Luke Parker would like to play out the remainder of his career at North Melbourne.

The 31-year-old former co-captain found himself in and out of the Swans’ best 22 throughout 2024, struggling to muster a consistent run of footy early due to injuries and suspension.

After 14 seasons at the club, Parker released this statement following his trade request, expressing the difficulty in arriving at the decision following a Premiership and three Best and Fairest awards throughout his stellar career.

“Coming to Sydney as a 19-year-old completely changed my life. Sydney became my home, I met my wife Kate here and the Swans became our family,” Parker said.

“The decision to part ways with the club after 14 years has been an extremely difficult choice, one I thought I’d never have to make.

"My most valued memories have been forged here, alongside a group of teammates who have become like brothers, and with fans who have shown me more love than I could have ever imagined deserving.

“The Sydney Swans will always hold a special place for my family and I.”

Parker’s final game for Sydney was their disappointing Grand Final loss to the Brisbane Lions, collecting 14 touches and kicking three goals.

Former teammate Dan Hannebery was full of praise for Parker’s gracious exit, claiming that the decision was appropriate given the nature of the veteran Swan’s career.

“I think it was a really great statement,” Hannebery told AFL Trade Radio.

“The way he encapsulated his career and what the club means to him. I mentioned to him yesterday, he has been an outstanding servant of the club, heart and soul, just a warrior.

“Most people would have loved for him to have played his 300th game at Sydney, be a one-club player, he probably would have wanted to do that.

“But I think given all the variables this year, writing on the wall being out of the team, forcing his way back in through some good form, came in and was running on top of the ground.

“Kicked three goals in the Grand Final so did his part, I think he probably could understand the realities of what was faced next year, and I think for him and the club, a mutual agreement, I think it’s a smart call from Luke.

“He can hopefully provide some much-needed leadership to North Melbourne.”