Buddy Franklin, a renowned figure in the Australian Football League (AFL), is making a notable return to competitive play. The former star will don his boots once again for a unique game with his childhood club, the Dowerin Tigers, situated in Western Australia”s central Wheatbelt. This special appearance is set for April 18, and it marks his first competitive match since he concluded his illustrious career in 2023, where he played 354 games.
The 39-year-old Franklin, who is currently ranked fourth on the all-time goal-kicking list in the AFL/VFL, has dedicated time to improving his fitness. He notably completed the New York Marathon last November, which has contributed to his readiness for this upcoming event. In a podcast with fellow former player Shane Crawford, Franklin expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “I”m going to go back there and play a game. I”m really excited about this; I never thought I”d get the opportunity to play for my junior football club.”
This one-off match serves a dual purpose: not only will it be a nostalgic return for Franklin, but it is also aimed at raising funds for essential upgrades, specifically new lighting at the Dowerin home ground, located approximately 156 kilometers northeast of Perth. Franklin emphasized the significance of this event for the local community, saying, “It”s definitely going to bring back a lot of memories. Obviously started there when I was six years of age. This is for the town itself, too, giving back. We”re going to raise $300,000.”
Throughout his remarkable career, Franklin established himself as one of the legends of the sport, amassing a total of 1,066 goals while playing for both the Hawthorn Hawks and the Sydney Swans over 19 seasons. He has earned multiple accolades, including being an eight-time All-Australian and securing the Coleman Medal four times. His contributions were pivotal in the Hawks” premiership victories in 2008 and 2013.
