Isaac Heeney

Selected by the Sydney Swans in the 2014 AFL Draft, Isaac Heeney immediately demonstrated his significant impact on the field. The Melbourne Football Club’s initial second overall pick for Heeney was matched by the Swans using their 18th pick, a maneuver that influenced subsequent changes to the AFL draft system. Heeney made a spectacular AFL debut for Sydney in Round 1 of the 2015 season against Essendon, kicking the match-winning goal. This strong start earned him an AFL Rising Star nomination in Round 3 of the 2015 season, the AFLPA Best First Year Player award that year, and the AFLCA Best Young Player in 2016.

Heeney commenced his professional career after honing his skills within the QBE Sydney Swans Academy. Heeney continued building on his success, earning selection in the AFL Players’ Association’s 22Under22 team in both 2017 and 2018. His highlight reel grew in 2018 when he won the coveted AFL Mark of the Year award, showcasing his aerial prowess. In 2022, Heeney received life membership with the Swans after playing 150 games, making him the first Academy graduate to reach this distinction.

His consistent excellence was once again acknowledged with an All-Australian team selection for 2025, marking his third overall, and a second consecutive Bob Skilton Medal win. Isaac Heeney remains a pivotal figure in the AFL, distinguished by his dynamic playing style, consistent individual accolades, and proven ability to perform at the highest level, making him a highly valuable and marketable talent.