Isaac Kako

Isaac Kako (born 7 March 2006) is a professional Australian rules footballer playing for the Essendon Football Club in the Australian Football League (AFL). Kako, renowned for his speed, agility, and sharp goal-scoring instincts, joined Essendon after being selected with pick No. 13 in the 2024 AFL draft. Essendon secured Kako by matching a bid from Richmond due to his eligibility through Essendon's Next Generation Academy (NGA) program.

Early life Kako was born in Australia to Assyrian parents from Iraq, Laith and Samiya, who migrated in 1999 in search of better opportunities.

Junior career He began his footballing journey with the Northern Saints before progressing to the Calder Cannons in the Talent League. Quickly recognized for his dynamic playing style, Kako debuted for the Cannons in 2022, displaying early potential as an exciting small forward and earning selection in the Vic Metro squad for the National Under-16 Championships. In 2024, he elevated his game further, averaging 18.7 disposals per match and scoring 20 goals; achievements that secured him a position in the Coates Talent League Team of the Year and the AFL Under-18 All-Australian team.

To start his first season in the AFL, Kako kicked 4 goals in Essendon's pre-season match against at GMHBA Stadium, putting him in the frame for an early season debut. Kako was selected for a round 1 debut, in a match against at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. Kako kicked the opening goal of the match, which he scored with his first kick.

Kako received the AFL Rising Star nomination for his 17-disposal performance in Round 17, 2025 which also included 7 score involvements and a goal. He finished the season having played all 23 home-and-away games for the Bombers.

Statistics Updated to the end of round 22, 2026.

36 !! 23 !! 16 !! 191 !! 197 !! 388 !! 69 !! 83 !! 0.6 !! 0.4 !! 5.3 !! 5.5 !! 10.8 !! 1.9 !! 2.3 !! 0

Honours and achievements Junior football Coates Talent League Team of the Year: 2024 AFL Under-18 All-Australian team: 2024

AFL

Rising Star nomination - Round 17, 2025