Intro

IT was a 2023 to remember for Jacob van Rooyen.   

The flying Dutchman debuted in Round 3 against the Sydney Swans booting three goals, announcing himself on the big stage.  

Our No.2 went on to kick 28 goals throughout the year, cementing himself in Melbourne’s best 22.  

Season Averages  

Goal Accuracy: 70% (Elite)  
Hitouts to advantage: 1.2% (Elite) 
Pressure Acts: 9.7 (Above average) 
Tackles: 2.2 (Above average) 
Spoils: 1.5 (Above average) 

Game of the year  

It was on the biggest stage that van Rooyen made his mark.  

On ANZAC Day Eve Infront in front of 80,000 fans, the third-year forward set the fourth quarter alight.  

Three huge contested marks, all resulting in goals, sealed the game late as the Demons took home four points.  

Highlight

Inheriting a historic number from a club legend, former captain Nathan Jones was on hand to congratulate van Rooyen on his AFL debut. 

The MCG was filled with “Rooo” chants, as van Rooyen kicked three, quickly becoming a trade-mark of Melbourne gamedays.  

Quote

Forward coach Greg Stafford had this to say about the power forward. 

“He has incredible air-to-ground, his agility, his second effort and follow-up work is what makes him a real handful [for the opposition].”  

Off the field

From the ground to the canvas, van Rooyen was greeted to a special surprise post training.