The Swans made good strides last season in Kelly’s first campaign and have pinpointed a top four berth as the mininum goal in 2017.

“We won four games last year which was a lot better than the past few seasons,” Kelly said.

“We feel we’re on the way up as a club, but we’ve got areas we need to improve upon if we’re going to make the finals.”

The club is adopting a different coaching structure this year as Kelly shares the duties with James Dunston.

Dunston, a senior player at the Swans since moving from Mudgee, will fill the role as the on-field leader and Kelly in control off-field.

“James takes a lot of training sessions as he is a PE teacher,” he said.

“It’s been a slow process getting guys back on the track with the hot weather, but we’re starting to see a few more.

“We’re also on the lookout for any new players to come down.

“We train every Monday and Wednesday at No.1 Oval from 6pm.”

Kelly, originally from South Australia, shares his name with the 1995 Brownlow medallist and it is clear to see both footballers have a great devotion to the Red and White.

“This year is 20 years since I started up here,” Kelly said.

“I came to Tamworth after my wife’s parents bought a business and we’re still here.”

The Swans were also delighted to announce a new major sponsor in Wests Diggers for the upcoming season.