Isaac Smith is synonymous with Australian Rules Football, having carved out an illustrious career with the Hawthorn Football Club and Geelong Football Club in the Australian Football League (AFL).
A former player who retired at the end of the 2023 season, Smith’s journey from a promising talent to a celebrated athlete is a testament to his dedication, skill, and sportsmanship.
You can follow Isaac Smith‘s net worth, prize money, earnings, stats, career overview, and more here.
About Isaac Smith
Isaac Smith was born on December 30, 1988, in Young, New South Wales, into a family that cherished sports.
His early life in Cootamundra and subsequent move to Wagga Wagga exposed him to various sports, but Australian Rules Football captured his heart.
Smith was drafted by the Hawthorn with the 19th pick in the 2010 AFL draft and played ten seasons for the Hawks.
He participated in each of Hawthorn’s three consecutive Grand Final victories from 2013 to 2015.
Following the 2020 season, Smith moved to the Geelong Football Club as a free agent and played with the Cats for three seasons.
In 2022, he won his fourth premiership with Geelong and was awarded the Norm Smith Medal as the game’s best player.
Smith retired from AFL after the 2023 AFL season, his third year at Geelong.
Early Life
A deep engagement with sports marked Isaac Smith’s early life. At 13, he moved to Wagga Wagga and played alongside future Hawthorn teammate Matt Suckling in the Wagga Hawks.
This period was crucial in developing his skills and understanding of the game.
During childhood, Smith’s participation in basketball and Australian Rules Football laid a solid foundation for his athletic career.
Early Career
Before making his mark in the AFL, Smith’s football journey took him through various leagues and teams.
His time with Albury in the Ovens & Murray Football League in 2007 and later with Redan Football Club showcased his burgeoning talent.
Smith’s exceptional performance in the 2009 senior Ballarat Football League (BFL) Grand Final was a precursor to his AFL success.
Hawthorn selected him with the 19th pick in the 2010 AFL draft, marking the beginning of an extraordinary career.
Professional Career
Smith’s path to professional football was unconventional. He moved to Victoria to pursue a Sports Management Degree at the University of Ballarat and played for the Redan Football Club in the reserves.
His talent as an effective left-footed kick became apparent during his time at Redan. After winning the 2009 senior Ballarat Football League (BFL) Grand Final, he was persuaded to join North Ballarat.
Smith’s 2010 season was remarkable. He started with Redan in the BFL and culminated in a premiership with North Ballarat in the Victorian Football League (VFL).
His performance also included a victory with the Victorian Country Football League (VCFL) team in the 2010 Australian Country Championships.
Smith’s AFL career began when Hawthorn drafted him with the 19th pick in the 2010 AFL draft.
Despite being overlooked in the previous year’s draft and considered unlikely to be drafted at the start of 2010, Smith’s rapid ascent was a testament to his skill and determination.
He debuted in Round 7 of the 2011 season against Port Adelaide and quickly made a name for himself with his speed and endurance on the field.
During his tenure with Hawthorn, Smith was part of the team’s three consecutive Grand Final victories from 2013 to 2015.
A memorable 50m goal highlighted his performance in the 2013 Grand Final in the last quarter. Smith’s role at Hawthorn evolved over the years, and from 2017 to 2019, he served as Co-Vice-Captain alongside Liam Shiels.
He remained a vital leadership group member until he left the club at the end of the 2020 season.
Smith exercised his rights as a free agent and moved to the Geelong Football Club for the 2021 season. His impact at Geelong was immediate, and he played a pivotal role in the team’s success.
In 2022, Smith became the oldest player to win the Norm Smith Medal for best on ground in an AFL grand final, a testament to his enduring talent and contribution to the game.
He posted 32 disposals, 12 marks, and 3 goals in the 81-point win over Sydney.
On August 10, 2023, Smith announced his retirement from AFL, effective at the end of the season.
His career spanned 13 seasons across both Hawthorn and Geelong, with 280 games and 205 goals.
Smith’s retirement was met with tributes and recognition of his significant contributions to clubs and sports.
Isaac Smith’s Net Worth Details
Isaac Smith’s net worth is estimated to be $57 million as of 2025. This substantial net worth reflects his earnings from his professional football career.
Smith’s financial success is attributed to his achievements and contributions to the sport, playing for prominent clubs like Hawthorn and Geelong.
Contract and Salary
Isaac Smith, the triple-premiership wingman from Hawthorn, made a significant move in his AFL career by joining the Geelong Cats as an unrestricted free agent.
This transition occurred at the beginning of the free agency period in 2020.
Smith accepted a two-year deal with Geelong, a decision influenced by a desire for a lifestyle change and the pursuit of a fourth premiership.
While at Hawthorn, Smith was presented with a three-year offer from Melbourne. Although he could remain with Hawthorn for two more years, he ultimately chose Geelong’s two-year offer.
The move was significant enough for Hawthorn to receive a third-round compensation pick (No.42) as part of the free agency agreement.
Smith described the decision to join Geelong as incredibly hard, involving several sleepless nights.
He expressed gratitude towards Melbourne, particularly coach Simon Goodwin, for their professionalism throughout his decision-making process.
Smith’s choice was driven by the prospect of creating a new chapter in his life and the appeal of Geelong as a club and community.
This move to Geelong was part of a broader strategy by the club, known for its unique pay structure.
The club has successfully attracted star players like Tom Hawkins, Patrick Dangerfield, Jeremy Cameron, and Isaac Smith himself, often on contracts believed to be below their market value.
This approach has allowed Geelong to maintain a competitive team and manage its salary cap effectively, contributing to its success.
Career Earnings
Smith’s career earnings culminate in his salary, match payments, and performance bonuses. Isaac Smith likely earned a significant salary during his career.
The AFL salary cap and the average player salary give us an idea of the potential earnings range for a player of Smith’s caliber.
For instance, the average AFL player’s salary was $406,000 in the 2022 season. Given his success and longevity in the AFL, his earnings are estimated to be in the millions, making him one of his generation’s more financially successful players.
Personal Details
| Full Name | Isaac Smith |
| Date of Birth | December 30, 1988 |
| Place of Birth | Young, New South Wales |
| Height | 188 cm (6 ft 2 in) |
| Weight | 83 kg (183 lb) |
| Position | Midfielder / Forward |
| AFL Debut | Round 7, 2011 |
| Clubs | Hawthorn, Geelong |
| Premiership Wins | 4 (2013-2015 with Hawthorn, 2022 with Geelong) |
| Norm Smith Medal | 2022 |
Age
He is 35 years old.
Height
His height is 188 cm (6 ft 2 in).
Career Stats
| Season | Team | Games | Goals | Averages (per game) | Votes |
| 2011-2020 | Hawthorn | 210 | 165 | Goals: 0.79, Kicks: 12.88, Handballs: 8.32, Disposals: 21.20, Marks: 5.48 | 28 BV |
| 2021-2023 | Geelong | 70 | 40 | Goals: 0.57, Kicks: 14.97, Handballs: 7.03, Disposals: 22.00, Marks: 6.66 | 6 BV |
| Total | 280 | 205 | Goals: 0.73, Kicks: 13.40, Handballs: 8.00, Disposals: 21.54, Marks: 5.77 | 34 BV |
FAQs
When did Isaac Smith retire?
Isaac Smith announced his retirement from the AFL at the end of the Geelong Cats’ 2023 season.
How many premierships did Isaac Smith win?
He won four premierships during his AFL career: three with Hawthorn (2013-2015) and one with Geelong in 2022.
What position did Isaac Smith play?
Isaac Smith played as a midfielder/forward during his AFL career.
Which clubs did Isaac Smith play for?
He played for Hawthorn Football Club from 2011 to 2020 and Geelong Football Club from 2021 to 2023.
How tall is Isaac Smith?
He is 188 cm (6 ft 2 in) tall.
Where was Isaac Smith born?
Isaac Smith was born in Young, New South Wales.
Did Isaac Smith win the Norm Smith Medal?
Yes, he won the Norm Smith Medal in 2022 as the best player on the ground in the AFL Grand Final.
How many goals did Isaac Smith score in his career?
Isaac Smith scored a total of 205 goals in his AFL career.
