Australian Football Hall Of Fame Welcomes New Legends In 2025
The Australian Football world celebrated the enshrinement of nine icons into the Hall Of Fame in 2025, recognizing outstanding contributions to the sport. This year’s inductees span various eras and roles,highlighting the rich tapestry of talent within Australian Football.
New Inductees Honored
The 2025 Australian Football Hall Of Fame ceremony honored legends, each celebrated for their unique impact on the game.
From prolific goal-kickers to modern-day AFLW trailblazers, the class of 2025 represents the pinnacle of achievement in Australian Football.
Ken Farmer: A Legendary Goal-Kicker
Ken Farmer, inducted as a legend, dominated South Australian football. Over his 224-game career, Farmer showcased unparalleled goal-kicking prowess, leading North Adelaide’s goalkicking from 1929-1941 and the SANFL from 1930-1940.
Featuring an remarkable average of 6.3 goals per game, he booted 10 or more goals in a match 35 times, with a career-best of 23 goals in a single game.
Daisy Pearce: Pioneer Of The AFLW
Daisy Pearce,an icon of the AFLW,entered the Hall Of Fame after a remarkable career. Leading the Melbourne Demons to a Premiership Cup victory in 2022, her influence extends beyond the field, currently serving as the West Coast’s AFLW coach. She is considered one of the greatest pioneers of AFLW.
Pearce’s decorated career includes three All-Australian selections and a pivotal role in the early exhibition games that paved the way for the AFLW’s formation.
Erin Phillips: AFLW Superstar
Erin Phillips, an inaugural inductee from the AFLW, is celebrated for her stellar career with Adelaide and Port Adelaide. Phillips retired in 2023 as the competition’s most decorated player.
With three premierships (2017, 2019, 2022), three All-Australian selections, and multiple best and fairest awards, phillips has set a high standard in the AFLW. She now joins her father,Greg Phillips,in the Hall Of Fame,marking a unique family achievement.
Luke Hodge: A Modern-Day Great
Luke Hodge, a more recent retiree, boasts an impressive resume including four premierships with Hawthorn and two seasons with Brisbane as a playing mentor. Hodge’s leadership and skill made him one of the AFL’s premier midfielders.
As a triple premiership captain (2013-2015), dual club champion, and Norm Smith medallist, Hodge’s impact on the game is undeniable. He was also the number one pick in the 2021 ‘Super Draft’.
Nick Riewoldt: St Kilda Champion
Nick Riewoldt, who retired in 2017, is recognized for his 336 games and 718 goals. Riewoldt’s selection marks the first time a number-one draft pick has been inducted into the Hall Of Fame.He is indeed one of the greatest players for St. Kilda.
A six-time best and fairest winner, five-time All-Australian, and captain during St Kilda’s 2009 and 2010 Grand Final appearances, Riewoldt’s athleticism and leadership defined his career.
Garry Lyon: Versatile Melbourne Star
Garry Lyon, inducted 26 years after his retirement, is celebrated for his 226-game career with Melbourne.Lyon excelled at both ends of the ground, earning All-Australian honors as a centre half-back and later as a forward.
Lyon captained Victoria and played a key role in Melbourne’s 1988 Grand Final appearance. He was also present at the 2021 Grand Final to hand over the premiership Cup to his beloved Demons.
Other Distinguished Inductees
The Hall Of Fame also welcomed George Owens, a champion player and umpire; John Leedham, considered tasmania’s greatest player to never play in the VFL/AFL; and Peter Darley, a SANFL star from South Adelaide, each adding to the Hall Of Fame’s legacy.
Did You Know? Greg Phillips, Erin’s father, was a Port Adelaide SANFL and Collingwood champion, adding another layer to their family’s football legacy.
Summary Of The 2025 Australian Football Hall Of Fame Inductees
| Inductee | Achievements |
|---|---|
| Ken Farmer | led North Adelaide and SANFL in goalkicking,averaged 6.3 goals per game. |
| Daisy Pearce | AFLW icon, Premiership Cup winner, 10 VFLW/VWFL premierships. |
| Erin Phillips | Three-time premiership player, three-time All-Australian, dual best and fairest winner. |
| Luke Hodge | Four-time premiership player, triple premiership captain, Norm Smith medallist. |
| Nick Riewoldt | Six-time best and fairest, five-time All-Australian, St Kilda captain. |
| Garry Lyon | Dual All-Australian, captained Victoria, key player for Melbourne. |
| George Owens | Champion player and umpire in WAFL. |
| John Leedham | considered Tasmania’s greatest player to never play VFL/AFL. |
| Peter Darley | SANFL star, seven-time club champion, All-Australian selection. |
Pro Tip: The formal induction ceremony usually includes speeches, video tributes, and the unveiling of portraits, making it a memorable event for inductees and fans alike.
The Enduring Legacy Of Hall Of Famers
induction into the Australian Football Hall Of Fame is a testament to a lasting impact on the sport. These athletes and pioneers inspire future generations and preserve the history of Australian Football.
Each member’s unique journey and achievements contribute to the Hall Of Fame’s rich tapestry, ensuring their stories are remembered and celebrated for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Who is eligible for induction into the Australian football hall Of Fame?
- How are inductees selected for the Australian Football hall Of Fame?
- What criteria are used to evaluate potential Hall Of Fame inductees?
- can administrators or coaches be inducted into the Australian Football Hall Of Fame?
- How dose induction into the Hall Of fame impact an Australian Football player’s legacy?
Eligibility requires an extraordinary record, meaningful contribution to the game, and retirement for a minimum period.
A panel of experts evaluates nominees based on their playing record, leadership, and overall impact on Australian Football.
Criteria include on-field performance, individual awards, premierships, and contributions to the sport’s development.
Yes, individuals who have made significant contributions in administrative or coaching roles are eligible for induction.
Induction solidifies their place in history, ensuring their achievements are remembered and celebrated by fans and future players.
What are your thoughts on the 2025 Australian Football Hall Of Fame inductees? Which player’s career do you find most inspiring?
Share your comments and spread the word about these Australian Football legends!
