Ned Bowman

Ned Bowman (born 12 September 2006) is an Australian rules footballer who plays for the Sydney Swans in the Australian Football League (AFL). He was selected with pick 26 in the 2024 AFL draft, following a standout season with Norwood in the South Australian National Football League (SANFL) under-18 competition.

Bowman gained national attention in 2024 after taking a highly publicized mark during a SANFL match that drew comparisons to some of the AFL’s most iconic aerial plays. The moment received widespread media coverage and was viewed as a key factor in his rising draft stock.

Early life Bowman was born in Orroroo, South Australia. He is the son of Lachlan Bowman, a former Norwood player who featured in over 150 games and was part of the club's 1997 premiership team. Ned credits his family's football background as an influence on his sporting development.

His standout moment came in April 2024, when he took a contested mark over multiple opponents during a match against . The mark received national media coverage and was widely shared online. He was allocated the number 23 guernsey, previously worn by Lance Franklin. In an interview with AFL.com.au, Bowman acknowledged the significance of the number and said he embraced the responsibility that came with it.

Playing style Bowman is regarded as an athletic forward known for his vertical leap, contested marking, and goal sense. Standing at 186 cm, he is noted for his ability to create scoring opportunities both in open play and in contests.