Who kicked 1000 goals?

Franklin Joins AFL's Legendary 1000-Goal Club

On 25 March 2022, Lance Franklin etched his name into Australian football history by becoming the sixth player ever to kick 1,000 goals in a career. The milestone placed him among the game’s most revered icons, joining an elite group defined by consistency, precision, and sheer brilliance in front of goal.

Only five players had achieved the feat before him: Tony Lockett, the all-time leader with 1,360 goals across his career with St Kilda and Sydney, whose gritty determination made him a fan favourite for decades; Jason Dunstall, who amassed 1,254 goals as a dominant force for Hawthorn; and the legendary Gordon Coventry, whose record of 1,299 stood for generations after he retired in 1937.

Doug Wade’s 1,057 goals and Gary Ablett Sr.’s 1,031 also stand as towering achievements, testaments to their scoring prowess during eras when the game looked vastly different. Each of these names carries weight far beyond statistics—they represent eras of the sport, moments of magic, and unforgettable finals performances.

Franklin’s journey to this milestone was no less dramatic. Known for his explosive athleticism and uncanny ability to find the ball, “Buddy” combined flair with reliability. Reaching 1,000 goals wasn’t just a personal triumph—it was a celebration of longevity and excellence in a physically demanding sport.

While football continues to evolve, the 1,000-goal club remains a rarefied circle. With only six members to date, it stands as one of the most respected benchmarks in Australian Rules Football. Franklin’s place among them cements his legacy—not just as a star, but as a legend of the game.