The AFL has awarded eight new people with life memberships, players, administrators and broadcasters among them.
Of the eight, five players have automatically qualified after reaching the 300 AFL game milestone. Richmond's Trent Cotchin, Kangaroo Todd Goldstein, retired Eagle Josh J. Kennedy, former Port, St Kilda and Essendon ruckman Paddy Ryder and Magpie Steele Sidebottom were all given the honour after their milestone achievements, commended for their distinguished careers in the game.
Lisa Hardeman, Bruce McAvaney and Eddie McGuire were also awarded life membership, credited for their โSpecial Services to the Game'.
Hardeman, a pioneer of women's football, played in five premierships across her time on the field, while her administration behind the scenes has been a driving force in the establishment of a national women's league. In addition to her life membership, Hardeman is honoured in the Victorian Football League Women's Grand Final Best on Ground award, called โThe Lisa Hardeman Medal.
McAvaney is a familar face, and voice, to most footy fans, recognised with life membership for his iconic decades long commentary. McAvaney started calling the game back in 1978 and has since become a recognisable voice of the league, calling over 1,000 AFL games.
Famous Collingwood figure Eddie McGuire was also given life membership for his services to the game. A prominent feature on both television and radio, McGuire is also widely known for his role as Collingwood club president, a position he held from 1998 to 2021.
In addition to the eight life memberships, the AFL also announced Peter Haby, Hawthorn Football Club's Historian and Museum Curator, as the recipient of the 2023 Jack Titus Award Recognition of Service award.
Across his time at the Hawks, Haby has published four books relating to the history of the club, among several other impressive feats. He was awarded club life membership in 2001.
All eight new life members will be officially honoured when the 2023 AFL season is launched, scheduled for March 9.
