[3] Heywood made his VFL debut in the 1943 season and after sporadic appearances that year was a regular selection in 1944, playing 16 of a possible 18 games.

After being discharged from Darwin in 1946 he moved back to Melbourne where he undertook and completed a Commerce Degree.

[4] Melbourne won the game and took on Essendon in the Grand Final, with Heywood lining up in his favoured half forward flank position.

For the first time in VFL history the Grand Final was drawn and Heywood lost his place in the team for the replay when Bob McKenzie returned from injury.

[5] Heywood played another full season in 1950, including a game against Hawthorn where he kicked six goals, and retired after ten senior appearances in 1951.