Lance “Buddy” Franklin, a legendary figure in the Australian Football League (AFL), is set to return to the field for a one-time appearance with his former local club, the Dowerin Tigers, located in the central Wheatbelt of Western Australia. This event will take place on April 18, 2026.
Franklin, who ranks fourth on the all-time goal-kicking list in the AFL/VFL, has been away from competitive football since he concluded his illustrious career, which spanned 354 games, in 2023. The 39-year-old has recently focused on improving his fitness, having completed the New York Marathon last November.
During a podcast with fellow former player Shane Crawford, Franklin expressed his excitement about the opportunity to play for his junior football club. “I”m really excited about this, I never thought I”d get the opportunity to play for my junior football club,” he shared. “But it”s popped up, this opportunity. I”m really excited to get back there and have a game.”
This special appearance is not only a personal milestone for Franklin but also aims to support the community by raising funds for new lighting at the Dowerin Tigers” home ground, which is approximately 156 kilometers northeast of Perth. Franklin stated, “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.”
As one of football”s all-time greats, Franklin”s career includes an impressive tally of 1,066 goals scored while playing for both Hawthorn and Sydney, along with numerous accolades such as being an eight-time All-Australian and a four-time Coleman Medal winner. He played a crucial role in the Hawks” premiership victories in 2008 and 2013.
