Kevin Sheedy AO is an Australian sporting icon whose name is etched into the history of Australian Rules Football-not just as a decorated player and coach, but as a visionary leader and master motivator. With a career spanning over five decades and more than 1,000 games played or coached, Sheedy is widely recognised for transforming teams, shaping culture, and inspiring individuals to achieve greatness. Today, he channels that extraordinary experience into a dynamic keynote speaking career, engaging audiences from boardrooms to stadiums with insights on leadership, team-building, resilience, and innovation. His unique ability to draw lessons from elite sport and apply them to business, education, and community settings makes him one of Australia's most in-demand keynote speakers.
Throughout his career, Sheedy has been more than just a football figure-he has been a cultural force. As senior coach of Essendon Football Club for 27 consecutive seasons, he led the team to four premierships and revolutionised the way the game was played, managed, and marketed. He pioneered blockbuster events like the Anzac Day match, Dreamtime at the 'G, and the Country Game-initiatives that not only transformed the AFL calendar but also fostered deeper connections with Indigenous communities, rural Australia, and veterans. His ability to think outside the square, challenge norms, and lead with purpose is at the heart of his keynote content. From empowering young employees to navigating high-performance environments and driving change, Kevin speaks with unmatched authority and relevance.
Outside of football, Kevin has made significant contributions to education, youth development, and national service. He is the founder of AFL SportsReady, a not-for-profit that has helped over 14,000 young Australians-particularly Indigenous youth-gain education and employment opportunities. He is also an Ambassador for the Bravery Trust, supporting veterans and their families in times of hardship, and serves as an Australian Apprenticeships Ambassador. His extensive honours, including the Order of Australia, the Centenary Medal, and multiple honorary doctorates, reflect the breadth of his impact. As a keynote speaker, Kevin Sheedy delivers more than just inspiration-he offers a masterclass in leadership, culture, and legacy, told with the candour, charisma, and depth that only a true champion can provide.
Testimonials
Kevin was engaging, genuinely interested, and delivered exactly what we were looking for. On point, and spot on. Highly recommended.
Brandt Australia
Kevin was such a lovely and interesting guy. He engaged the room and is obviously very passionate and knowledgeable about his topics. We would definitely recommend him.
Banjo's Corporation Pty Ltd
A well-respected and well-known personality who needs little introduction. Kevin Sheedy spoke at our event during Mental Health Week. He was candid and so entertaining and certainly hit the mark with our audience. Interweaved in Kevin's speech was frank and fearless advice on the importance of having a positive attitude and how your approach to life can impact significantly on your mental health and those around you. He was generous with his time after the presentation, signing books and allowing people to take photographs with him. Highly recommend Kevin as a speaker for any event.
Department of Defence
Excellent, a perfect fit. Kevin Sheedy slotted into the event like he was one of our own staff. He stayed for the duration of the event and virtually spoke to everyone in the room. Kevin posed for photos and signed autographs, and his address was not only highly entertaining but relevant to our objectives on the night. He is a true legend.
Insurance Group Australia
Kevin Sheedy was thoroughly entertaining and also very giving in terms of interactions with people before and after his presentation. He was extremely well received by all sections of the audience, younger or older, male or female. We all saw 'Sheeds' at his best: funny, thought-provoking and passionate. We would highly recommend Kevin as an after dinner speaker to any event.
The Police Association of Victoria
An inspiring talk, well targeted at the audience; well received.
St Mary's College, T University of Melbourne
An old stalwart with fresh views to share which are great.
Municipal Works Operations Association
Audience enjoyed - suited as a dinner speaker. Raised huge amount of money for our charity - thank you.
Ambulance Victoria
Kevin Sheedy was great! He was able to take his vast, practical experience and weave it into a presentation hat was perfect for our crowd. The nuggets of wisdom were delivered with power, conviction and, most importantly, plenty of laughs!!
Dominion Print Group
Kevin Sheedy delivered a superb presentation. He was very engaging and was able to tailor his message to fit the audience through sharing his personal experiences. Speaking away from the lectern and using a whiteboard really connected with the audience. I would not hesitate in booking Kevin again.
Moonee Valley City Council
