Classy Sydney co-captain Dane Rampe has been hailed for one of the all-time humble grand final speeches, after his side’s 81-point loss on Saturday.
The Swans were simply never in the contest in the 2022 AFL grand final, after coughing up a six-goal to one opening term and going goalless in the third.
But instead of dwelling on the devastating loss, Rampe used his grand final speech to praise the career of rival skipper Joel Selwood.
Fighting back tears, Rampe described Selwood as an “absolute” giant of the game after he set an AFL record of 40 finals matches on Saturday.
“Firstly to Chris and Joel and the Geelong footy club, my heartfelt congratulations on the premiership this year,” Rampe started.
“You guys have been the benchmark for God-knows how long. Great to see a great reward for effort.
“I just want to touch on Joel Selwood’s record as well – sometimes you just have to pinch yourself when you share the field with the giants of the game mate, and you’re an absolute giant – congratulations!”
As well as thanking the sponsors, Rampe spoke to his “red and white supporters”.
“To our boys, bad luck today,” he said.
“So proud of our efforts throughout the season. We’ll be back hungrier and better for it next year.
“To our red and white supporters, both South Melbourne and back in Sydney, sorry we failed you today.
“Your support has meant the utmost of the last three years, during Covid and this year particularly back with crowds – thank you.”
Rampe’s speech was met with rousing cheers from both Swans and Cats fans alike, such was the impact his words had.
