Swans youngster suspended after NSW Police investigation

The Swans youngster, who played five matches in 2024, has been suspended for the first two rounds of the upcoming AFL season.

Sydney Swans young gun Caiden Cleary has been suspended for the first two rounds of the 2025 AFL season after being caught attempting to buy an illicit substance in the city’s eastern suburbs.

The 19-year-old has been found guilty of ‘conduct unbecoming’ and will subsequently be unavailable for his club’s Opening Round match against Hawthorn and Round 1 clash against their grand final conquerors the Brisbane Lions.

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The league has also prevented him from taking part in the upcoming AAMI Community Series.

Cleary has also been issued a $5,000 fine for an adverse finding under the AFL’s Illicit Drugs Policy, with the fine suspended pending his future behaviour.

In a Swans statement released on Friday afternoon, the club revealed the forward failed to notify the club of his infringement with the NSW police regarding the purchase of an illicit substance.

Caiden Cleary has been suspended for two matches. (Photo by Cameron Spencer/Getty Images)

“(Cleary’s) conduct was investigated by NSW Police, resulting in Cleary receiving a criminal infringement notice for possession of an illicit substance and a $400 fine,” the statement read.

“Cleary is extremely remorseful and has cooperated fully with the AFL investigation.

“The club is extremely disappointed and does not condone nor tolerate illicit drug behaviour. The Sydney Swans will continue to educate our players on the pitfalls of such behaviour.”

The AFL also elaborated on the ordeal in a statement of its own.

“Cleary’s conduct constitutes an Adverse Finding under the AFL’s Illicit Drugs Policy additionally resulting in the imposition of a $5,000 (suspended) fine on him,” the league stipulated.

“Following an incident in December 2024, Cleary’s conduct was investigated by the NSW Police resulting in him receiving a criminal infringement notice for possession of an illicit substance.

“In connection with the criminal infringement notice, Cleary received a $400 fine with no criminal conviction recorded.

“The AFL now considers this matter finalised.”

Cleary played five games in his debut season at AFL level in 2024, with the first three all as the Swans’ substitute.

Originally published as Swans youngster suspended after NSW Police investigation