Red headed Cooney is one of the stars of the AFL, playing in the midfield for the Western Bulldogs. Cooney is the current holder of AFL’s most prestigious individual award, the Brownlow Medal, winning it with a total of 24 votes last year, beating Brisbane Lions star Simon Black by a single vote. He created history by becoming the first No. 1 Draft pick in AFL history to win the Brownlow. Cooney was drafted to the Bulldogs as an Adelaide junior in 2003. Cooney is blessed with explosive pace and a monster boot. Besides winning the Brownlow, he created headlines when he revealed he proposed to his girlfriend by placing a burger ring on her finger last year!

How hard is it spending so much time away from the kids during the season?
It's always hard to leave the kids but I always make sure I bring them home a little present. – Adam Cooney

How big an inspiration are the kids to your career?
I tell the kids before every game that I will try kick them a goal & they let me know about it if I don't! – Adam Cooney

Are you always mindful of setting a good example for them on and off the field?
Yes I've grown up a lot since becoming a Dad. I'm a lot more mature & am always trying to provide a positive outlook on things. – Adam Cooney

What is your favourite activity with the kids?
My favourite activities with the kids are watching Family Guy with Ash & wrestling with Jax. – Adam Cooney

Besides their birth, obviously, what is your most memorable moment with your kids?
Going on our first big family holiday to the Gold Coast was a lot of fun. The kids loved Dream World & Sea World. – Adam Cooney

What makes him such a great father?
He loves hanging out with the kids & has a lot of time to do fun stuff with them. He gives big cuddles & doesn't make them eat their vegetables because he doesn't like them! – Haylea MacCann

Are you aware that dad is a famous footballer?
Yes because he plays for the Western Bulldogs & won the Brownlow Medal because he is the best footballer - Ash