Country town buzzing as Lance Franklin returns to footy

The return of Lance 'Buddy' Franklin to the Dowerin Tigers isn't just a football match; it's a homecoming that has electrified our small country town. For a community of fewer than 400 people, the buzz surrounding Buddy's appearance has been palpable for weeks. It's a testament to the deep roots he maintains in Dowerin, the place where he first kicked a footy before embarking on a stellar AFL career.

“

I'm excited for the whole town, I'm excited for all the players playing tomorrow. I'm especially excited for our young Dowerin boys who get to run out with the man.

Seeing Buddy pull on the No. 23 jumper for his junior club, alongside childhood friends like Shane Crawford, is a moment of immense pride for everyone here. It’s particularly special for the young Dowerin boys who get to share the field with a legend. Unlike the massive stadiums he graced in Hawthorn and Sydney, this intimate gathering of 3,500 passionate fans in Dowerin feels incredibly personal.

“

He's such a humble man, doesn't want the limelight, doesn't want to do interviews. He didn't have to [come back], he's not charging us — he just wants to help out.

What truly resonates with us is Buddy's humility. Despite his legendary status, he's not seeking the spotlight or charging the club. He's simply here to help out, to give back to the community that shaped him. This return is more than just a game; it's a celebration of our town's connection to one of Australia's greatest sporting figures, a reminder of where it all began and the enduring spirit of country football.

“

To get him back, and have him in and around the town, it's incredible.