Exciting forward Isaac Heeney has been acknowledged for his breakout 2015 season with the Cathy Lees Memorial Award.
Named in honour of passionate Swans supporter Cathy Lees, who died of cancer at a young age, the award is given to the most promising Swans player at the end of each season.
Past recipients have included the likes of Brett Kirk and Tadhg Kennelly while recent winners have included Sam Reid, Luke Parker, Harry Cunningham, Brandon Jack and Jake Lloyd.
Presented with the trophy during a team meeting on Wednesday, Heeney said it was honour to win such a valued award.
“I'm very humbled and appreciative of being seen as an up-and-coming sportsman," he said.
“It's another award, similar to the Rising Star, so it's great to be recognised again.
“Hopefully I can have another year like last season and continue to improve."
The origins of the award emerged from Cathy’s love of watching the reserves to see who the next star would be.
Cathy’s father, Alan, who was there to present the trophy alongside extended family, still frequents reserves matches during the season.
Debuting in Round 1 against Essendon, Heeney made an immediate impact by kicking the winning goal in an epic come-from-behind win at ANZ Stadium.
Two rounds later Heeney would earn a NAB Rising Star Nomination.
A injury setback meant he missed 10 weeks before returning via the NEAFL and then Round 17 against West Coast.
The former Sydney Swans QBE Academy member played finals and was recognised for his impressive first season with the Swans’ Rising Star Award at the end of season presentation dinner.
The crafty forward averaged 12 disposals in his 14 matches in 2015, also adding 16 goals to the tally.
