Buddy Franklin's Football Return: Thousands Snatch Tickets for AFL Legend's Dowerin Comeback
The legendary Lance 'Buddy' Franklin is set to make a highly-anticipated return to football next week, playing for his junior club in the Wheatbelt region. This marks his first game since retiring from a storied AFL career in 2023, which included 1066 goals and 354 games.
Ticket Sales Surge for Franklin's Comeback Game
Dowerin Football Club president Todd Quartermaine has revealed that nearly 3000 tickets have already been sold for Franklin's comeback match. The club is aiming to raise a total of $300,000 through this event, with funds dedicated to upgrading the lighting at the town's oval.
Quartermaine expressed his excitement about the overwhelming response: "Our sponsorship has increased significantly because of this game, and with ticket sales, drinks, and other activities on the day, we hope to make substantial progress toward our fundraising goal."
He added, "We're thrilled that he's willing to give back. It's amazing, really. We couldn't believe he's willing to come back and do this for the town and help us raise some money. It'll be fantastic."
Franklin's Return to His Roots
Franklin will pull on the boots next Saturday to play for Dowerin as they host Gingin in the opening game of the new Mortlock Football Season. Growing up on his family's farm in Dowerin, the football club was a central part of the community for him.
In a recent podcast interview with fellow Hawthorn legend Shane Crawford, Franklin shared his enthusiasm: "Growing up in Dowerin, the footy club was a huge part of the community, so it's pretty special to be able to come back and pull on the jumper again. I'm looking forward to getting out there with the boys and helping the club raise money for their facilities."
How the Comeback Came Together
Quartermaine disclosed that initial discussions about Franklin's return began after the Tigers started boosting their social media presence. "Halfway through last year, when we started posting stuff for our club, he started following us, and it sort of went from there," he explained. "We started talking to his management, and the possibilities started to happen and grow from there."
Regarding Franklin's fitness, Quartermaine noted, "He's super fit, that's for sure, because he's been doing these marathons. Hopefully, he's football fit and gets a few kicks."
A Look Back at Franklin's Illustrious Career
Franklin's football journey began when he was awarded a scholarship to board at Wesley College as a 15-year-old. He was drafted by Hawthorn in 2008, where he won two premierships and two Coleman Medals. In 2013, he made a blockbuster move to Sydney, leading the league in goal-kicking for two more seasons, though another premiership remained elusive.
Tickets for the upcoming game remain available via Eventbrite, offering fans a rare chance to see the AFL legend back in action on the field.
