Legendary former Sydney Swans and Hawthorn goal-kicker Lance ‘Buddy’ Franklin is heading back to where it all began.
The proud Dowerin product will line up for his junior club in a special one-off appearance on Saturday, April 18, in the Tigers’ home opening-round clash against Gingin.
“I’m going to be going back to my junior football club back in WA, Dowerin Football Club,” Franklin said on his Buddy & Shane Show podcast.
“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.
“But it’s popped up, this opportunity. I’m really excited to get back there and have a game.”
Franklin, an eight-time All-Australian who kicked 1066 goals during a decorated 354-game AFL career, said the inspiration behind his shock return was to help raise money for a new lighting upgrade at Dowerin Oval.
Donations can be made for the lighting upgrade here, with club aiming to raise $300,000.
Franklin started his footy journey in the Wheatbelt town before moving to Perth when he was 15 to attend Wesley College as a boarder.
The four-time Coleman Medal winner joined Perth Football Club’s WAFL program before getting drafted to Hawthorn with pick five in the 2004 AFL National Draft.
“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,” he said.
“I’m looking forward to getting out there with the boys and helping the club raise money for their facilities.”
Tickets for the special clash can be purchased through this link until April 2.