In summation...
Much of the off-season chatter centred around Isaac Heeney’s potential full-time move to the midfield in season 2017 all the while having to deal with a bout of glandular fever which interrupted his pre-season campaign and kept him sidelined for the opening four rounds.
Thankfully, the QBE Sydney Swans Academy product recovered swiftly, surprising many with how quickly he bounced back, and was added to the midfield rotation with the 21-year-old splitting his time in front of goal and on the ball.
Heeney’s numbers read like this: He averaged over 20 disposals (half contested), four tackles, three clearances and a goal per game this season.
On those stats, it’s hard to believe this born-and-raised New South Welshman has just completed only his third season of AFL football.
His composure and assured hands make him such a weapon in that midfield mix and down forward, and he’ll only get better too with another virus-free pre-season under his belt.
What the numbers say...
Games: 20
Goals: 16
Kicks: 250
H’balls: 161
Marks: 100
Disposals: 411
Goal assists: 8
Tackles: 95
Clearances: 63
Inside 50s: 58
Rebound 50s: 34
AFL Fantasy: 1,659 (average 92.2)
Supercoach: 1,756 (average 97.6)
Best performance...
Round 6 v Carlton at the MCG
Yes, the loss to the Blues marked the lowest ebb of the Sydney Swans but Heeney was one who could hold his head up high after that afternoon. In only his second game back from glandular fever, Heeney tallied 26 disposals, eight marks (two intercept), several inside 50s, six tackles and a goal.
What they said...
“It was probably the most mentally challenging thing I’ve done throughout my career so far. I was pretty crook, but I bounced back pretty quickly. I did everything right and got back playing within seven or eight weeks, which with glandular fever is extremely short.”
- Isaac Heeney reflecting back on his illness ahead of the 2017 finals campaign.
In pictures...
Isaac Heeney enjoyed a big summer on the track (left) before succumbing to glandular fever which sidelined him in the lead up to Round 1.
Heeney collides with Essendon's Mark Baguley in Round 14. It knocked the wind out of him but the rising star got straight back up and kicked a goal soon after.
Heeney celebrates a goal in the Round 18 Pride Game against St Kilda.
