Lance 'Buddy' Franklin's new teammates say they've been surprised to discover he is the greatest person who has ever lived.

“When he arrived, we were all wondering what he would be like. Obviously he’s got a high profile and there were a lot of media stories,” said Daniel Hannebery.

“On the first day though, he gathered us in a group and told us that each of us was loved and that our lives were a blessing to the world.

‘It was a class act and made me feel good about myself for the first time. I'd follow him to the depths of hell now or a nightclub which is more likely.’

The Swans games-record holder, Adam Goodes said Buddy’s attitude has won him over.

“Originally, I thought I’d have to keep a close eye on Buddy but he pretends to defer to me which is all I could ever ask for.”

Jordan Lockyer said Franklin had been ‘super-nice’ after he voluntarily gave Buddy his number 23 jumper, after been told he had to.

“He calls me Stephen and thinks I’m a trainer but he gives my hair a tussle when he sees me.’

Co-Captain Kieran Jack said Buddy had shown talents beyond football.

“At training, I tore my anterior cruciate ligament. Buddy got the boys to form a prayer circle around me and then laid his hands on me. My knee was instantly healed.”

Jarrad McVeigh said Buddy has bought the ‘Bloods’ culture.

“Not ‘bought in’ to the culture, he actually bought it with some of that money we gave him.”

“He’s kept the culture a team one though; he tips us all evenly, regardless of your position in the club.”

Swans Coach John Longmire said Buddy has already surpassed the pre-season goals set for him.

“I sat down with Buddy and said ‘it would be good if you could come to training occasionally.’ I’m very happy to say he’s come several times now which is just terrific.”

“It’s meant we could get some photos of him at training to give the media.”