Sam De Koning is an Australian rules footballer who has made a name for himself as a formidable defender for the Geelong Football Club in the Australian Football League (AFL).
His impressive height and athletic ability mark his presence on the field, making him a key player in the team’s defensive lineup.
You can follow Sam De Koning’s net worth, salary, career earnings, contract, stats, wife, career overview, and more here.
About Sam De Koning
Born on February 26, 2001, Sam De Koning hails from Australia, where he grew up in a large and sports-oriented family. He is one of ten children, and his passion for football runs in the family.
His elder brother, Tom De Koning, plays for Carlton, and their father, Terry De Koning, was a former Footscray player in the 1980s.
This familial connection to the sport has undoubtedly influenced Sam’s career, providing him with a robust support system and a wealth of football knowledge from a young age.
Early Life
A close-knit family environment and a love for sports characterized Sam’s early life. Growing up with nine siblings, he learned the value of teamwork and competition.
His family’s affinity for football constantly shaped his aspirations and honed his skills from a young age.
The De Koning household was a breeding ground for talent, and sports were a central part of their daily lives.
Early Career
Before stepping into the professional arena, Sam De Koning played for the Dandenong Stingrays, showcasing his potential and skill on the field.
His performance caught the attention of scouts, and Geelong eventually selected him in the first round of the 2019 AFL draft.
This marked the beginning of his journey in the AFL, setting the stage for what would become a promising career.
Professional Career
De Koning made his AFL debut in round 5 of the 2021 season against North Melbourne at GMHBA Stadium.
His first goal in AFL football came during a critical moment—the Geelong Cats vs. Sydney Swans 2022 Grand Final game, a testament to his ability to perform under pressure.
As of the end of the 2023 season, Sam has played 43 games and scored one goal, with his statistics reflecting a steady improvement and a solid contribution to his team’s defensive efforts.
Sam De Koning’s Net Worth Details
As of 2026, Sam De Koning’s net worth is estimated to be $10 million. His earnings come from his salary as a professional ice hockey player, endorsements, and other sources.
Contract and Salary
In December 2022, De Koning signed a two-year contract extension with the Geelong Cats, ensuring his stay at the club until at least the end of the 2025 season.
This early contract renewal came as a strategic move by Geelong to secure De Koning’s services amidst his rising profile and to deter interest from rival clubs.
De Koning himself expressed enthusiasm about continuing his journey with the Cats, highlighting the club’s culture and his desire to further develop his skills within the team.
The contract extension followed a breakout season for De Koning, where he emerged as one of the AFL’s premier fullbacks, playing a crucial role in Geelong’s successful campaign, including their Grand Final win over Sydney.
His performance throughout the season, where he often matched up against and neutralized the competition’s best forwards, earned him a second-place finish in the Rising Star award.
Career Earnings
| Year | Position | Games | Salary | Total YTD | Average | Highest Salary | Lowest Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 | DEF | 0 | 126,300 | 0 | 0 | 126,300 | 126,300 |
| 2021 | DEF | 1 | 123,900 | 27 | 27 | 123,900 | 123,900 |
| 2022 | F/D | 20 | 337,500 | 1,317 | 66 | 377,700 | 123,900 |
| 2023 | DEF | 19 | 364,800 | 1,168 | 61 | 372,700 | 288,500 |
| 2024 | DEF | 1 | 343,600 | 44 | 0 | 44 | 0 |
Personal Details
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Sam De Koning |
| Date of Birth | February 26, 2001 |
| Birthplace | Australia |
| Height | 204 cm (6 ft 8 in) |
| Weight | 87 kg (192 lb) |
| Position | Defender |
| Current Club | Geelong Football Club |
| Number | 16 |
Relationship Status
De Koning prefers to keep his personal life private.
Age
He is 23 years old.
Height and Weight
Sam De Koning’s height is listed as 204 cm (6 ft 8 in), and his weight is 87 kg (192 lb).
Career Stats
| Season | Team | Games | Goals | Kicks | Handballs | Disposals | Marks | Tackles |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 | Geelong | 0 | – | – | – | – | – | – |
| 2021 | Geelong | 1 | 0 | 2 | 7 | 9 | 3 | 0 |
| 2022 | Geelong | 23 | 1 | 143 | 138 | 281 | 120 | 6 |
| 2023 | Geelong | 19 | 0 | 129 | 105 | 234 | 86 | 11 |
FAQs
1. Who is Sam De Koning?
Sam De Koning is an Australian rules footballer playing for the Geelong Football Club in the AFL. Since his 2021 debut, he has emerged as a versatile defensive and ruck option.
2. What positions does he play?
He primarily occupies the key defensive posts but is also deployed as a ruckman, providing Geelong with tactical flexibility across multiple areas of the ground.
3. When did he make his AFL debut?
He made his AFL debut in round five of the 2021 season for Geelong against North Melbourne at GMHBA Stadium, marking the start of his senior career.
4. What are his height and weight?
He stands 204 cm tall and weighs 87 kg, measurements that give him a significant aerial presence both in defence and at stoppages as a ruckman.
5. Which club drafted him and with which pick?
Geelong selected him with pick 19 in the first round of the 2019 AFL draft, after his standout performances with the Dandenong Stingrays in the NAB League.
6. What career highlights has he achieved?
He was part of Geelong’s 2022 premiership team, kicking his first AFL goal in the Grand Final, and earned recognition for his impact around stoppages and contested possessions.
7. How versatile is he on the field?
His ability to switch seamlessly between key defensive duties and ruck contests underlines his adaptability, allowing coaches to adjust matchups and rotations mid-game.
8. When did he reach his 50th AFL game?
He celebrated his 50th AFL appearance during the 2024 season, underlining his rapid progression and consistent selection since debuting in 2021.
9. What was his junior club?
Prior to his AFL career, he played junior football for the Dandenong Stingrays in Victoria’s NAB League, where his performances earned him first-round draft selection status.
10. How old is Sam De Koning?
Born on 26 February 2001, he is 24 years old and continues to develop his game as one of the league’s emerging tall defenders and ruckmen.
