Is Buddy Franklin Playing Tonight? Is Buddy Franklin Retired?
by Swetha P | Updated Aug 27, 2023
Lance Buddy Franklin
Lance 'Buddy' Franklin, affectionately known as Buddy, is an iconic figure in the world of Australian rules football (AFL). Hailing from Perth, Western Australia, Buddy Franklin made an indelible mark on the sport during his illustrious career. Standing tall at 199 cm and weighing 105 kg, he was a formidable key forward. He began his AFL journey with the Hawthorn Football Club in 2005 and later joined the Sydney Swans in 2014.
Throughout his career, Buddy showcased his incredible goal-scoring prowess, amassing 1,066 goals, and ranking fourth in VFL/AFL history. He was a dominant force in the AFL, leading his team's goal-kicking charts on 13 occasions and securing a place in the All-Australian team eight times. His remarkable career saw him win four Coleman Medals, with his most prolific season being in 2008 when he kicked an astonishing 113 goals.
Is Buddy Franklin Playing Tonight?
As of the present moment, Buddy Franklin has made the heartfelt announcement of his retirement from the professional Australian Football League (AFL). This decision to step away from the game came swiftly following a calf injury, a setback that would have, at the very least, kept him off the field for an extended period, possibly even sidelining him for the entire season.
Consequently, AFL enthusiasts will not have the privilege of witnessing Buddy Franklin's exceptional skills and goal-scoring prowess in any upcoming matches. This announcement marked the conclusion of a remarkable and storied career in Australian rules football, leaving fans with cherished memories of his contributions on the field.
Is Buddy Franklin Retired?
Yes, Lance 'Buddy' Franklin has formally retired from the AFL. This retirement decision was made public after he shared the news with his fellow Sydney Swans teammates. The catalyst for this significant announcement was the calf injury he incurred, one that would have necessitated a prolonged absence from the sport.
Buddy Franklin's retirement signifies the conclusion of an illustrious career, characterized by his incredible talent as a key forward, his impressive record of 1,066 career goals, and his multiple accolades, including eight selections to the All-Australian team. His departure from the AFL leaves an enduring legacy and serves as a poignant moment in the annals of Australian rules football history.
Buddy Franklin Dad
Lance Franklin's father, Lance Sr., has a unique sporting journey of his own. Prior to settling in Western Australia, Lance Sr. played hockey for the state of Victoria. His pursuit of excellence in field hockey took him on a path distinct from that of his son, Lance Jr., affectionately known as Buddy. While Lance Sr. chose the realm of field hockey as his arena of competition.
Young Lance Jr. embarked on a journey that would ultimately define him as one of Australian rules football's greatest-ever players. This contrast in sporting pursuits within the Franklin family highlights the diversity of talent and passion that runs through their lineage. Lance Sr.'s commitment to field hockey and Buddy's meteoric rise in AFL both contribute to the rich tapestry of sporting achievements within their family.
Buddy Franklin Sister
In the Franklin family, the pursuit of sporting excellence extends well beyond Buddy's illustrious career in Australian rules football. His sister, Bianca Giteau, has carved out her own niche in the world of sports as a remarkably talented athlete. Bianca's journey led her to the prestigious ANZ Championship, where she left an indelible mark with her formidable skills while representing the Adelaide Thunderbirds.
Her achievements underscore the family's collective commitment to sports and competition, showcasing a shared passion that transcends Buddy's footballing prowess. The Franklin family's sporting legacy is not just about Buddy; it's a testament to their dedication to excelling in their chosen fields and a reflection of their unwavering love for sports.
Buddy Franklin Injury
Buddy Franklin's decision to retire from the AFL was significantly influenced by a calf injury that he suffered during a match against Essendon. This injury proved to be a formidable obstacle, one that would have sidelined him for an extended period. Given the severity and expected recovery time, it became impractical for Buddy to continue playing for the remainder of the season.
This calf injury marked a poignant moment in his career, prompting him to make the difficult decision to step away from the game he had passionately contributed to for many years. It serves as a reminder of the physical toll that professional athletes often endure and the pivotal role injuries can play in shaping the trajectory of their careers.
Buddy Franklin Family
Lance 'Buddy' Franklin's family heritage is steeped in rich Indigenous Australian traditions, specifically hailing from the Noongar-Wajuk community. His mother, Ursula Kickett, is a proud descendant of the Noongar people, and this heritage forms a significant part of his identity. In addition to his mother's lineage, Buddy's uncle, Derek Kickett, is a notable figure in the world of Australian rules football, having had a successful career as a footballer.
The Franklin family's background serves as a testament to the deep cultural and sporting roots that have profoundly influenced Buddy's life and career. It's a heritage that he carries with pride and reverence, reflecting the interconnectedness of his Indigenous Australian heritage and his achievements in the world of AFL.
Why is Lance Franklin Called Buddy?
The endearing nickname 'Buddy' has an origin deeply rooted in the Franklin family's unique dynamics. It emerged as a way to distinguish Lance Franklin from his father, Lance Sr., from a young age. Instead of opting for the conventional "Lance Jr.," his family affectionately chose 'Buddy' as his moniker. This choice of nickname was not only a means of differentiation but also a reflection of the warmth and familiarity that permeates close-knit families.
'Buddy' remained with him throughout his life, transcending familial circles to become the widely recognized and cherished name by which the world came to know this extraordinary athlete. In essence, it encapsulates the personal and affectionate touch within the Franklin family, a small yet endearing detail in the larger narrative of Buddy's remarkable journey in Australian rules football.
Is Buddy Franklin Aboriginal?
Yes, Lance 'Buddy' Franklin proudly carries his Indigenous Australian heritage as an integral part of his identity. Specifically, he belongs to the Noongar-Wajuk community, a heritage deeply rooted in the rich cultural traditions of Australia's Indigenous peoples. Throughout his life and illustrious career in Australian rules football, Buddy Franklin has embraced and celebrated this heritage.
Symbolizing the profound connection between his cultural roots and his achievements on the field. His heritage serves as a source of pride and a reminder of the diverse tapestry of backgrounds that contribute to the rich mosaic of Australian society, making him not only a sporting icon but also a representative of the Indigenous Australian community and its enduring legacy in the country's history.
Is Buddy Franklin Playing Tonight? - FAQs
Lance 'Buddy' Franklin, affectionately known as Buddy, is an iconic figure in the world of Australian rules football (AFL).
No, Buddy Franklin has retired from AFL, effective immediately, due to injury.
Buddy Franklin kicked a total of 1,066 goals during his AFL career.
Buddy Franklin is of Indigenous Australian heritage, specifically Noongar-Wajuk.
Buddy Franklin was selected in the All-Australian team on eight occasions during his career.