From draft underdog to the oldest Norm Smith Medalist in AFL history
In short: In 2010, Isaac Smith was an unlikely AFL prospect, having been passed over in the previous draft. Yet, the man from New South Wales would go on to secure four premierships and redefine what it means to dominate a Grand Final through speed rather than sheer size.
Isaac Smith’s ascent to the pinnacle of Australian rules football was anything but linear. Born in Young, New South Wales, Smith moved through the regional leagues of Cootamundra, Wagga Wagga, and Albury before finding his footing in Victoria. After a period playing for Redan in the Ballarat Football League, his 2010 season proved transformative. Despite being considered unlikely to be drafted at the start of that year, he was selected by the Hawthorn Football Club with the 19th pick in the 2010 AFL draft.
During his ten seasons with the Hawks, Smith became a cornerstone of a golden era. He was a vital part of Hawthorn's three consecutive Grand Final victories between 2013 and 2015, famously contributing an incredible 50m goal during the 201s Grand Final. While his playing style relied more on speed than physical strength, his impact was undeniable. He even served as Co-Vice-Captain of the club alongside Liam Shiels from 2017 to 2019.
After the 2020 season ended, Smith joined Geelong Football Club via free agency to begin a new era. His tenure with the Cats culminated in a historic 2022 Grand Final performance against the Sydney Swans. In an 81-point victory, Smith recorded 32 disposals, 12 marks, and 3 goals, earning the Norm Smith Medal. In doing so, he became the oldest player ever to receive the award for best on ground in an AFL Grand Final.
After retiring from the AFL at the end of the 2023 season, Smith transitioned from the field to the airwaves. Following a stint with Triple M, he was announced in September 2026 as a co-host for KIIS 101.1 Melbourne’s breakfast program, scheduled to launch in October 2026.
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- Summary by Intellect · source: Isaac Smith (footballer)
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