Who is Dyson Heppell? Essendon star set for AFL milestone game against Geelong Cats at the MCG
Dyson Heppell is on his way to becoming the 15th player in Essendon history to reach the 250 AFL game milestone. The 32 year old has played 249 games since his debut in 2011, making him a veteran of the sport.
The Essendon midfielder started his football journey with Leongatha Football Club after which he played for Gippsland Power in the TAC Cup competition in the 2009 and 2010 seasons. Heppell also played for the Victorian Country side at the 2010 AFL National Under 18 Championships, where he was named in the All-Australian team.
Heppell was a star performer at the AFL Draft Camp, putting up stunningly skillful displays that had many thinking he would be a top-5 draft pick in the 2010 AFL Draft. He was even speculated as a top-3 pick.
The Brisbane Lions showed significant interest in Heppell, as his style was modeled after that of Brisbane star Josh Drummond. However, rumors started spreading about his health, specifically about potential groin problems.
It caught the attention of the Essendon Bombers, who had the eighth selection. Essendon coach James Hird spoke to Heppell before the draft and expressed his interest in bringing the rising star into his team.
It seemed unlikely though, as Heppell appeared bound to be picked long before the Bombers would be able to draft him. In a twist of fate, the rumors concerning Dyson Heppell's groin health turned out to be true, giving the Bombers the opportunity to draft him.
It was a dream come true for Heppell who had grown up idolizing the Essendon Bombers.
Dyson Heppell's legacy as key member of Essendon Football Club
In his first season, Dyson Heppell would go on to win the hearts of his teammates and fans of his club, contributing largely to Essendon making the finals.
Unsurprisingly, he won the coveted Ron Evans Medal, and since then his career has soared to incredible heights. He won a Crichton Medal and All-Australian selection in 2014.
Heppell served the Essendon Bombers as their captain from 2017 to 2023, succeeding Jobe Watson and leading the team for 107 games. His decision to stand down struck his team by surprise, but his era as captain is fondly remembered.
In the early part of this year, Essendon coach Brad Scott, in a comment to Fox Footy reporters, expressed his gratitude for Heppell’s presence in his team, particularly for his support and courage during their most difficult time.
Dyson Heppell will play his 250th game when Essendon faces the Geelong Cats at the MCG in the next round.