lachlan mcandrew

From Rugby Union Heartland to AFL Stardom: The Rise of Lachlan McAndrew

The Unlikely Path to the Crows’ No.1 Ruck Spot

In a sport where athletes often follow a predictable trajectory from junior leagues to professional clubs, Lachlan McAndrew’s journey stands out as one of the most intriguing AFL stories of recent years. Once a rugby union enthusiast with no prior knowledge of Australian rules football, McAndrew has now emerged as Adelaide Crows’ primary ruckman—a position he once barely understood.

This remarkable transformation didn’t happen overnight. It began with a late-career code switch, a stint on Sydney Swans’ list, and ultimately, a strategic move to Adelaide during the Supplemental Selection Period. Today, at just 24 years old, McAndrew finds himself at the centre of one of the AFL’s most anticipated debuts—and Fantasy football managers are already scrambling to secure his services.

Recent Developments: What We Know (And What We Don’t)

According to verified reports from official AFL sources, Lachlan McAndrew officially joined the Adelaide Football Club via the pre-season Supplemental Selection Period in February 2025. This move came after four seasons with the Sydney Swans, during which he played only two senior games before being delisted.

Recent training footage shows McAndrew looking strong and composed during Adelaide’s preparations for their Round One clash against Collingwood. While the club remains tight-lipped about specific selection plans—consistent with their usual approach—multiple insider reports suggest he is poised for a debut this weekend.

The timing couldn’t be more significant. With Max Michalanney recovering from a hamstring strain and Reilly O’Brien facing stiff competition for the number-one ruck role, McAndrew’s arrival couldn’t have come at a better moment. As CODE Sports noted in their feature piece: “He was a rugby union fanatic in a ruckman’s body — but Lachlan McAndrew had never even watched an AFL game and didn’t even know what a ruck was.”

The Making of a Ruckman: A Journey Through Code Switching

McAndrew’s story is not unique in the AFL landscape, where code switching has become increasingly common. However, his path diverged sharply from most others due to his complete lack of exposure to Australian rules football before making the leap.

Born and raised in New South Wales, McAndrew initially dedicated himself to rugby union, playing at representative levels before transitioning to AFL. His physical attributes—standing at an imposing 210cm—made him a natural fit for the ruck role, but it was his work ethic and adaptability that truly set him apart.

During his time with the Sydney Swans, McAndrew spent much of his early career developing behind established ruckmen like Paddy Ryder and then later, Callum Sinclair. Despite limited opportunities in the seniors, his performances in the reserves and practice matches earned him recognition within the club’s development system.

When Adelaide identified him as a potential solution to their ruck depth issues, they moved swiftly to secure his services. The decision proved prescient, especially given the injuries to key players earlier in the season.

Immediate Impact: Fantasy Football and Team Dynamics

The ripple effects of McAndrew’s rise extend far beyond the field. In AFL Fantasy circles, his name has dominated discussions since joining the Crows. Currently listed at $286,000, McAndrew is projected to become the most selected ruck in the competition—a testament to both his potential and the vacuum left by Reilly O’Brien’s uncertain status.

Fantasy coaches face a dilemma: commit to McAndrew now or wait until he proves himself in real matches. Given his background and recent form, many are betting big on the young recruit.

On the team front, McAndrew’s presence adds another layer of complexity to Adelaide’s midfield strategy. His ability to compete physically against larger opponents like Collingwood’s Darcy Moore will be crucial in determining whether the Crows can establish dominance in contested possessions.

Broader Implications: Code Switching in Modern AFL

McAndrew’s journey reflects broader trends in the AFL regarding player recruitment and development. Clubs are increasingly willing to take calculated risks on athletes from different sports backgrounds, particularly when those individuals possess exceptional athleticism and coachability.

This approach isn’t without precedent. Players such as Daniel Wells (former NRL star), Jarrad Grant (ex-NRL winger), and even current stars like Patrick Dangerfield began their careers outside AFL. What sets McAndrew apart is not just his origin story, but how quickly he’s adapted to the demands of elite-level Australian rules football.

For Adelaide, signing McAndrew represents more than just filling a positional need—it signals a shift toward embracing versatile talent regardless of sporting pedigree. If successful, this strategy could influence how other clubs approach player recruitment moving forward.

Looking Ahead: Challenges and Opportunities

While excitement surrounds McAndrew’s imminent debut, realistic assessments acknowledge the challenges ahead. Playing regular senior football at age 24 is considered relatively late compared to traditional pathways, meaning he must hit the ground running.

Adelaide’s coaching staff will need to carefully manage his workload to avoid burnout while maximizing his impact on match days. Additionally, building chemistry with teammates accustomed to established routines will require patience and clear communication.

That said, McAndrew possesses several qualities that bode well for his future. His size gives him an immediate advantage in ruck contests, while his background in rugby suggests he’s no stranger to high-intensity collisions and split-second decisions under pressure.

If he can translate his physical gifts into consistent performance, McAndrew may well carve out a long-term career with the Crows—possibly even becoming a cornerstone of their rebuild efforts.

Conclusion: More Than Just a Ruckman

Lachlan McAndrew’s ascent from rugby union fanatic to AFL prospect encapsulates the evolving nature of professional sports today. What began as an unlikely experiment has blossomed into something far greater—a genuine opportunity for a talented athlete to redefine his future.

As Adelaide prepares to face Collingwood this weekend, all eyes will be on McAndrew. Will he seize his chance? Or will the weight of expectation prove too heavy?

One thing is certain: wherever his journey takes him next, McAndrew’s story will continue to inspire those who believe that with enough determination, even the most unconventional paths can lead to success.