From the Skene St end of Deakin Reserve to Steel Blue Oval, Kade Chalcraft’s move from Shepparton United to Swan Districts is a 3282 kilometre step for his footballing career.

The Goulburn Valley League star decided to fly west to the WAFL club after conversations mid-year with Swans coach Andrew Pruyn, as a chance to play with older brother Jye became a real prospect.

Jye Chalcraft has played in the WA State league for the past two seasons, finishing runner-up in last year’s club best-and-fairest count, while Kade has plied his trade in the GVL and featured at VFL level for Geelong in 2024.

But with a proposition to reunite with his sibling, Chalcraft jumped at the chance.

“I’m honestly really excited. Moving west is a big change, but it feels like the right one,” he told the Swan Districts media team.

“Getting the chance to play footy alongside my brother again is something pretty special.

“He (Jye) definitely played a big part. If I was going to move interstate for footy, having family here made the decision a lot easier.

“Also having one of my close mates Mitch Roche who is also at the club helped.

“But it wasn’t just about that — the opportunity at Swans and the direction the club’s heading in really appealed to me as well.

“[Jye] couldn’t speak highly enough of it.

“He loves the club, the coaching group, and the boys, and he’s really settled in WA.

“Hearing that from someone you trust carries a lot of weight.

“It made me pretty confident that this would be a good move for both my footy and my life off the field.”

Chalcraft noted while a far journey from his Goulburn Valley home, the ability to play state league football will only further the 23-year-old’s development.

“I think a fresh environment will be really good for me,” he said.

“I’m looking to keep building my midfield game, bring energy and work rate, and take another step in my development.

“I’m excited to learn from the coaches, be part of a strong program, and contribute however I can.”

Chalcraft’s first game in black and white is scheduled for Friday, April 3, when the Swans take on South Fremantle, and the former Demon stated he will be brimming with belief when he crosses the painted line.

“Playing with Jye has always been something we’ve enjoyed,” Chalcraft said.

“There’s a natural connection there, and we both get the best out of each other.

“To be able to do that again at senior level is pretty special, and we’re both really looking forward to it.

“In a way you almost walk a little taller or have a bit more confidence out there with an older brother on the field.”

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Saturday, 15th January 2028

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