A New Zealand international hooker, he played club football in Australia for the Hunter Mariners, Melbourne Storm (with whom he won the 1999 NRL premiership) and Brisbane Broncos and in England for Hull FC.

Swain was selected for the New Zealand team to compete in the end of season 1999 Rugby League Tri-Nations tournament.

Having won the 1999 Premiership, the Melbourne Storm traveled to England to contest the 2000 World Club Challenge against Super League Champions St Helens R.F.C., with Kimmorley playing at hooker in the victory.

winning the 2005 Challenge Cup, as it was his last gasp charge-down of Kevin Sinfield's drop-goal attempt that ended the Leeds Rhinos' last chance of taking the game to extra-time.

reached the 2006 Super League Grand final to be contested against St. Helens and Swain played at hooker in his side's 4-26 loss.