Lance Franklin overwhelmed many an opponent during his near two-decade career that will likely earn him ‘legend’ status in the Australian Football Hall of Fame in years to come.
But it was the retiring West Aussie great who was overwhelmed on Sunday when he was joined by his family in an emotional lap-of-honour send-off from the Sydney Swans faithful at the SCG.
Franklin carried his son Rocky around his former home ground, with wife Jesinta and daughter Tallulah in tow as he soaked in the cheers from the red-and-white faithful.
It was the 354-gamer’s first public appearance at the club since he called time on his career last month without even attending his own retirement press conference.
“A lot of happiness, a little bit of sadness,” Franklin said when asked about his emotions.
“It’s all come to an end.
“But I feel incredibly honoured to have played this great game for 19 years. I’m a little bit overwhelmed.”
Franklin, who booted 1066 goals across stints at Hawthorn and the Swans to sit fourth on the all-time AFL/VFL goalkicking tally, said he would miss the thrill of competition and the locker room banter the most.
“It’s absolutely incredible to be here and see our fans out here today. It’s awesome.
“Coming from the bush in Western Australia, I probably never thought this was possible.
“To play 19 years at two great clubs… I’m incredibly proud.”