Sydney Swans pair Isaac Heeney and Brodie Grundy have starred in the side’s season opening victory over Melbourne at the SCG, claiming 9-votes each for their performances in Opening Round as part of the AFLCA Champion Player of the Year Award.

The pair were instrumental in the Swans 22-point victory to kick off their 2024 campaign and were rewarded, while teammates Nick Blakey and Chad Warner also polled votes for their strong contributions.

Heeney led the way against the Demons’ star-studded midfield in the absence of skipper Callum Mills, Luke Parker and Taylor Adams, with 26 disposals (18 contested), 13 clearances and a goal in a superb display.

Grundy starred with disposals, 33 hit outs, nine clearances, six tackles, five inside 50s and seven score involvements in his first appearance and red and white.

Half-back Nick Blakey (26 disposals, 529m gained) was crucial after half-time as the Swans looked to lower their eyes more when moving the ball forward, while Chad Warner (26 disposals, one goal) added valuable support in the second half after only eight touches before the break.

VOTES PLAYER (CLUB)
9 Isaac Heeney (SYD)
9 Brodie Grundy (SYD)
5 Nick Blakey (SYD)
5 Jack Viney (MELB)
2 Chad Warner (SYD)

Click here to view the full Champion Player of the Year Award Leaderboard.

The AFL Coaches Association’s AFL Champion Player Award is an award voted by the 18 coaching panels on a 5,4,3,2,1 basis after each home and away game, acknowledging outstanding effort by an individual player in a season.