Chad Warner (born May 19, 2001) is an Australian rules footballer who plays for the Sydney Swans in the Australian Football League (AFL). Known for his incredible burst and impact per touch, Warner has quickly become one of the best young players in the competition.
Early Life and Background
Chad Warner was born on May 19, 2001, in Willetton, Western Australia. Growing up in a sports-oriented family, Chad was introduced to Australian rules football at a young age. His father, Travis Warner, and grandfather, Graeme Warner, both played for the Nhill Football Club in the Wimmera Football League.
Travis later moved to Perth to play for South Fremantle in the West Australian Football League (WAFL), where he played 34 games over three seasons. Chad attended Aquinas College in Perth, where he played football for the school’s team in the Public Schools Association.
Warner’s football journey began with the Willetton Junior Football Club, where he honed his skills before progressing to East Fremantle in the WAFL Colts division. During the 2019 season, he played nine games and kicked eight goals, showcasing his potential. His performances earned him a spot in the AFL Under 18 Championships, representing Western Australia.
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AFL Career
In the 2019 AFL Draft, Warner was selected by the Sydney Swans with the 39th pick.
Warner made his AFL debut on July 12, 2020, against Richmond at The Gabba.
In 2021 Warner missed Round 13 due to leg soreness.
Breakout Season: 2022
Warner started the 2022 season by missing the opening round with COVID-19 but he played the next game and was the one who kicked the ball to Lance Franklin when he kicked his 1000th goal. He then enjoyed a breakout 2022 season with his incredible burst and impact per touch immediately marking him as one of the best young players of the competition. AFL journalist Damian Barrett spoke many times about the high esteem he places him in, even counting him a certainty to win the Brownlow at some stage.
He was included in the All-Australian Squad and finished as the runner-up in the Bob Skilton Medal, awarded to the club’s best and fairest player.
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2021 AFL Rising Star Nomination
Warner received a nomination for the 2021 AFL Rising Star after a standout performance against Richmond, where he kicked two goals and collected 20 disposals.
Not only is Swans midfielder Chad Warner this week's Rising Star nominee - making it the first time any club had three nominations in a row - but he's also re-signed for two more years until 2023.
2023 Season Highlights
In Round 5 of the 2023 season Warner played his first game alongside his younger brother Corey Warner in which Corey kicked his first goal.
In Sydney’s Indigenous Round clash with Carlton Warner stepped up collecting 29 disposals and kicking 2 goals to be awarded with the Goodes-O’Loughlin Medal for Best on Ground in the game.
Warner finished the 2023 season after playing 21 out of a possible 24 games for Sydney and polling his teams’ second most Brownlow votes with 16 on the night.
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2024 Season
Warner had an excellent year in 2024 helping Sydney reach the Grand Final. Warner starred across the year which was reflected with his inaugural All-Australian selection. Warner's standout performances of the season were in Rounds 11, 18, and 22.
2025 Season
2025 came with a lot of change for Sydney with a new coach in, Dean Cox, and the absence of star midfielder, Errol Gulden, for the majority of the season caused the Swans to finish 10th and miss September.
Playing Style and Impact
Warner’s breakout season came in 2022 when he played a pivotal role in the Swans’ midfield.
He then enjoyed a breakout 2022 season with his incredible burst and impact per touch immediately marking him as one of the best young players of the competition.
Chad Warner became a genuine superstar in 2022 | AFL
Personal Life and Community Involvement
Off the field, Chad Warner is known for his down-to-earth personality and strong family values. He is married to Regan Warner, and together they have two children, Miles and Elle.
Chad Warner is committed to giving back to the community through various initiatives. While his philanthropic efforts are not widely publicized, he has participated in charity events and community outreach programs through the Sydney Swans. He has also been involved in promoting mental health awareness, a cause that is close to his heart given the pressures of professional sport. These contributions reflect his strong sense of social responsibility and desire to make a positive impact beyond the field.
While specific figures regarding Chad Warner’s net worth are not publicly disclosed, his professional success and endorsements contribute to his financial standing.
As of April 2025, Chad Warner continues to be a key figure in the Sydney Swans’ lineup. His dynamic playing style and leadership qualities have made him one of the most promising young talents in the AFL. With his contract set to expire at the end of the 2025 season, speculation about his future has intensified, with several clubs expressing interest in securing his services.
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