Lance 'Buddy' Franklin Officially Ends Football Career After Dowerin Comeback
The legendary Lance "Buddy" Franklin has declared his football career is "definitely done" following a remarkable comeback appearance for his junior side on Saturday. More than two decades since he last wore Dowerin's yellow and black guernsey, the AFL icon returned to the Wheatbelt to play for his hometown club in their Mortlock Football League season opener.
Franklin kicked one goal and contributed to several others as the Tigers secured an 11.6 (72) to 5.8 (38) victory over Gingin in front of over 3500 enthusiastic fans. Speaking to his Hawthorn premiership teammate Shane Crawford after the game, with his daughter Tullulah by his side, the 39-year-old humorously noted he felt "every bit" of his age.
"I was tounging it, I'll tell you that much," Franklin said. "What a turnout. It's unbelievable to be back home, it was awesome. It brought back so many memories. It's always nice to get a good win, but it was about giving back, having fun."
Fundraising Success and Community Spirit
Franklin's appearance was part of Dowerin's efforts to raise $300,000 for new lighting at their oval. After deducting estimated costs, the club raised $168,615 from the game, boosting their fundraising drive beyond the $200,000 mark. President Todd Quartermaine expressed immense gratitude for Franklin's contribution and the hard work of dozens of volunteers over the past nine months.
"The last fortnight, it's been a lot of people doing a lot of hours. Before that, the main football committee and fundraising committee, it's probably been nine months of a lot of organising," Quartermaine told The West Australian. "To have such a good day too, we're spoilt. It's fantastic."
A Special Day for the Regional Community
Crawford praised the incredible scenes of the regional community coming together by the thousands for the afternoon. "I think it's a pretty special day, because you're not just getting a player who has played AFL football, you're getting one of the all-time greats," Crawford said. "Hopefully, everyone that's here, you remember the day forever."
Reflecting on his roots, Franklin emphasized Dowerin's pivotal role in his life. "Dowerin's played a huge part in getting me to where I am in life. I wouldn't be here if it wasn't for the footy club, getting down here as a six-year-old kid, then working my way through the juniors. It's a great club and it's nice to be home."
