Buddy Franklin hints at AFL return in sensational turnaround after retiring from football less than a year ago
- Buddy Franklin has hinted at a return to the AFL
- The superstar striker retired last year
- But he says he’d like to get involved again
Lance Franklin has announced his intention to return to the AFL, 11 months after retiring from football.
The 37-year-old Hawthorn and Sydney Swans legend has kept a relatively low profile since retiring last year, but has admitted his competitive streak is drawing him back to the sport.
“Football is the only thing I’ve played in almost 20 years,” Franklin said News Corp.
‘There’s no doubt that I’ll be back at some point, but it’s a nice situation to be out of football for a year, take a deep breath and spend time with my family.
“But there’s no doubt that I’ll be back in the game at some point.”
After retiring, Franklin moved from Sydney to the Gold Coast, where he lives with his wife Jesinta and their two young children, Rocky and Tallulah.
The former goalscorer remained coy when speaking about the implications of his return.
“I’m not sure, but that’s something I’m going to think about, talk to the right people about, and figure out exactly what I want to do. Because if I’m involved at any level, I’m going to go all in,” Franklin said.
Buddy Franklin has revealed plans to return to the AFL
The superstar striker left the game he loves less than 12 months ago
Looking back on life after football, Franklin said his life has changed immensely.
“When someone stops doing something for a long time, I definitely miss certain things,” Franklin said.
“I miss competing and being there for the guys, but… it was the right time to retire and I just feel blessed to have played that great game for so long. I’ve met some great people in my career.
‘It’s been a year since I retired and it was such a special moment to spend this time with my family and my young children, I would never have had that time if I was still playing football.
‘Being a stay-at-home dad can be challenging at times, but it’s just amazing.
“Having two screaming kids can be a challenge… You have your moments, but I wouldn’t change it for the world.”
The Swans have adapted remarkably well to life without Franklin, sitting atop the AFL rankings, having lost just two games this season.
