The Geelong Football Club is proud to recognise Shaun Mannagh, who has been nominated as a finalist for the 2026 Tom Hafey Heart of Football Award. 

Shaun Mannagh embodies the spirit of the Tom Hafey Variety Heart of Football Award through his kindness, generosity and unwavering commitment to making young people feel valued, included and inspired.

Shaun’s interactions with junior fans, young members and children visiting the club through wishes are consistently thoughtful, genuine and deeply impactful. Shaun gives an extraordinary amount of time to junior supporters. He is known for staying long after events have finished to ensure every child has had a moment with him.

At our junior member clinic, Shaun continued playing well beyond the scheduled time, determined to give every child the best possible experience. His enthusiasm, patience and joy in these moments reflect a player who understands the power of connection and the lasting impact a small act of kindness can have on a young person.

He never says no to a photo, signature or conversation, and he routinely goes out of his way to make someone’s day. Shaun is equally thoughtful when engaging with children visiting the club through wishes. He takes time to understand each child’s story, ensuring their experience feels personal, special and memorable. His ability to make children feel seen and celebrated is one of his most defining qualities.

Shaun’s broader community involvement further reinforces the values recognised by this award.

His work with Project 365 has deepened his connection to young people beyond the club environment. Through the Mental Health Round and Walk ’n’ Talk events, Shaun spent extensive time with junior players across regional communities, listening to their experiences, encouraging conversations about wellbeing, and showing them that mental health is something to talk about openly and confidently.

His presence gave young athletes a relatable role model who spoke with honesty and humility, helping reduce stigma and building confidence among kids who often look to AFL players for guidance.

His volunteering with Outpost Geelong and support of Reclink also reflect the same qualities he brings to his interactions with children: compassion, humility and a genuine desire to uplift others. These external commitments strengthen the authenticity of his engagement with young people, he leads with heart in every environment.

Shaun inspires not through grand gestures, but through consistent, meaningful interactions that leave children feeling supported, included and important.

His kindness, his generosity of time and his instinctive ability to brighten a young person’s day make him a truly deserving nominee for the Tom Hafey Variety Heart of Football Award.

The award will be presented at the 2026 Variety Grand Final Lunch on Wednesday, September 23, held at Crown Palladium.