AFL Icons Dane Swan and Buddy Franklin Set for WA Local Football Appearances
This weekend, Western Australian local football fans are in for a treat as two AFL legends, Dane Swan and Lance 'Buddy' Franklin, take to the field in separate matches. Swan, the former Collingwood superstar, will feature in a friendly game for Kingsway, while Franklin makes a nostalgic return to his roots.
Dane Swan's Comeback for Kingsway
Dane Swan, the 2011 Brownlow medallist, is scheduled to play a friendly match for Kingsway at their home ground in Madeley on Saturday, with kick-off at 3.30pm. Following the game, he will participate in a speaking event alongside former West Coast champion Scott Cummings in the evening. Since his forced retirement from AFL football in 2015 due to a foot injury, Swan has remained active in the sport, making appearances for various local clubs across Australia.
In recent years, he has played for York in the Avon Football Association and the Southerners in the Lower South West Football League, building on a 2023 game for Chapman Valley in the Great Northern Football League. Swan's illustrious career includes leading the league in disposals across four seasons and being a pivotal player in Collingwood's 2010 premiership victory, the same year he also secured the AFL Coaches Association and AFL Players Association awards for the competition's best player.
Buddy Franklin's Fundraising Return
Meanwhile, Lance Franklin will return to his junior club, the Dowerin Tigers, for their Mortlock Football League season opener against Gingin on Saturday. This appearance is part of a fundraising effort to support the installation of new lighting at the Wheatbelt town's oval, highlighting the community spirit that underpins local football. Franklin's involvement adds to the excitement of the weekend, showcasing how AFL stars continue to give back to grassroots sports.
The dual appearances of Swan and Franklin underscore the enduring appeal of local football in WA, drawing attention to the passion and dedication that define the sport at all levels. Fans are encouraged to attend these events to witness these champions in action and support their respective causes.
