The Australian Football League (AFL) has produced many legendary players who have left an indelible mark on the sport. Their extraordinary skills, unmatched dedication, and incredible achievements have contributed to thrilling games and inspired fans and aspiring athletes alike.
Below, we will delve into the careers of the top 5 AFL players of all time, exploring the contributions that have etched their names into the annals of AFL history. Whether you’re a long-time fan or a newcomer to the sport, join us on this journey to celebrate the prowess and passion of these AFL icons.
Leigh Matthews
Leigh Matthews is unequivocally hailed as one of the greatest players to grace the field in the history of the Australian Football League (AFL). Known for his unparalleled skill, fierce competitiveness, and remarkable leadership, Matthews’ career has left an indelible mark on the sport.
Over his illustrious tenure with the Hawthorn Football Club, he demonstrated exceptional prowess as a player and coach, guiding his teams to multiple victories. His legacy is often revisited during important AFL events, such as the buildup to the afl grand final 2022 date, where fans remember the legends who have shaped the game.
Matthews’ influence extends beyond the field, inspiring future generations and solidifying his place as an AFL icon.
Gary Ablett Jr.
When discussing the greatest AFL players of all time, it’s impossible to ignore the remarkable career of Gary Ablett Jr. Known affectionately as “The Little Master,” Ablett Jr. has left an indelible mark on the game with his exceptional skill, consistency, and versatility.
Over his illustrious career, Ablett Jr. has dazzled fans with his extraordinary ability to read the play, pinpoint accuracy in passing, and knack for scoring crucial goals. More than just his raw talent, Ablett Jr.’s dedication and sportsmanship have cemented his status as a legend of Australian Rules Football.
Wayne Carey
Wayne Carey, often called “The King” or “Duck,” is considered one of the greatest Australian Rules footballers ever. Born on May 27, 1971, in Wagga Wagga, Carey’s football journey began in 1979 with the North Wagga Saints.
He was chosen for the NSW State Primary Schools squad in 1983 and became a North Adelaide U15 Special Squad member in 1986. Carey played in the North Melbourne Football Club’s (Kangaroos) Under 19s premiership team in 1988 after being signed by the team in 1987 at sixteen. He made his senior debut the next season.
Instantly, it was apparent that the Kangaroos had acquired exceptional talent. Carey earned a reputation as an aggressive, high-marking, and goal-scoring forward with remarkable speed and precise kicking, even under pressure.
In 1993, at just 21 years old, he became the second youngest captain in VFL/AFL history and led the Kangaroos to eight successive finals.
Over his career with North Melbourne, Carey played 244 games, captained the 1996 and 1999 premiership teams, won the club’s best and fairest award four times, and was named in the All-Australian team seven times, four as captain.
After a tumultuous end with North Melbourne in 2002, he joined the Adelaide Crows for two seasons before retiring in 2004 with 272 games and 727 goals. Inducted into the Australian Football Hall of Fame in 2010, Carey also made a notable return to the media with appearances on shows like One HD’s One Week at a Time and the Marngrook Footy Show.
Tony Lockett
Tony Lockett received an induction into The Sport Australia Hall of Fame in 2017 in recognition of his exceptional achievements in Australian Rules Football. Known affectionately as Plugger, Lockett retired in 2002 as the leading goal kicker in AFL/VFL history with 1,360 goals.
Over his 18-season career with St Kilda and the Sydney Swans, he became the first full-forward to win the Brownlow Medal in 1987. Lockett earned four Coleman Medals, three best and fairest awards, and five All-Australian selections. He began his football journey with the North Ballarat Roosters, joining St Kilda at 16.
His aggressive play and incredible goal-scoring ability made him a legend, culminating in breaking Gordon Coventry’s goal record in 1999. Inducted into the Australian Football Hall of Fame in 2006, he was elevated to a Legend in 2015.
Michael Voss
Michael Voss inevitably stands out when discussing the greatest AFL players ever. A formidable force on the field, Voss’s career is a testament to his unparalleled skill, leadership, and dedication to the game.
Playing for the Brisbane Lions, he became known for his remarkable talent, tenacity, and ability to inspire teammates and fans. Over his career, Voss amassed numerous accolades, including multiple Best and Fairest awards, and led his team to three consecutive premierships.
Conclusion
These five players have achieved remarkable individual successes and inspired countless fans and aspiring athletes with their extraordinary contributions to Australian Rules Football. Their legacies continue to shape the future of the AFL.
