In the Blood

"Cheer, cheer the red and white..."

Thirty years ago, in 1982, the struggling South Melbourne Football Club flew north of the Barrassi line to become the Sydney Swans. In round one of that year, the Swans played their first game at the SCG against the Melbourne Demons and tomorrow night (Saturday), to mark the occasion, the Swans play the Dees again (in 1982 the Swans won 137 points to 108. Needless to say I'm hoping for a similar result tomorrow night!). So, in honour of the occasion, let's consider this offering.

In the Blood by Jim Main (a fellow Swans tragic) celebrates the rich history of the South Melbourne/Sydney Swans Football Club. Covering every season from its foundation in 1874 up to 2009 (when this book was originally published), Main's passion and knowledge of The Bloods history shines through, with the highlight being the 2005 Grand Final triumph (as well it should be!).

While there may be two AFL teams in Sydney now, the Swans were here first and in many ways blazed the trail for what was to become a truly national competition.

"What though the odds be great or small, Souths/Swans will go in and win over all.
While here loyal sons are marching, Onwards to victory!"