Fremantle Dockers fans will witness a nostalgic reunion on October 5, 2023, as beloved players Hayden Ballantyne and Stephen Hill take the field alongside Jeff Farmer in the Legends Game at Marvel Stadium. This highly anticipated match features a lineup of former Dockers stars, including Tommy Sheridan, who played in the club’s 2013 Grand Final, and Hill, who is remembered for his pivotal contributions during that season.
A Star-Studded Showdown
Ballantyne and Hill will be part of an All Stars team that includes notable West Coast Eagles legends such as Ben Cousins and Andrew Embley, aiming to take on a Victorian side led by Sheridan and featuring Luke Shuey. The Legends Game is expected to be a thrilling showcase of talent and camaraderie, with both teams eager to reignite old rivalries.
“It’ll be good fun to reunite with my old mate Stephen Hill,” Ballantyne remarked in an interview with The West Australian. He expressed excitement about the opportunity to play alongside Farmer, acknowledging the unique skills he brings to the game. “I never got to play with Jeff … he’s a bit of a character but he can seriously play,” he added.
Hill’s participation is particularly significant, as he played a crucial role in Fremantle’s history. During the 2013 season, he scored a memorable goal that helped secure a win against Geelong, propelling the Dockers towards their first Grand Final appearance. Reflecting on his return to the field, Hill humorously noted, “I reckon I might spend a bit more time on the bench than that day, I’d say. But that’s OK.” He emphasized the importance of enjoying the moment while supporting a good cause.
Preparing for the Spotlight
Both players are approaching the game with a mix of excitement and caution. Hill, who retired after 218 AFL games in 2021 and later played country football with Gingin, has had limited training in preparation for the match. “Since then I’ve been on minimal training, so I am just hoping I don’t go out there and do a hamstring on national television,” he said, highlighting the challenges of returning to the sport.
Ballantyne, on the other hand, has maintained a connection to football, playing informal matches with friends in Pinjarra since his AFL career ended. “There might not be a lot of passing going on, there might be a few shots from outside 50 or from the boundary,” he joked, hinting at the competitive spirit that will likely emerge on the field.
The All Stars roster also features renowned players such as Isaac Smith, a four-time premiership player, and fan-favourite Andrew McLeod. Additionally, Cyril Rioli is expected to make an appearance, marking a rare public outing since his time with Hawthorn.
The Four’N Twenty Legends Game will be broadcast live and free on Channel 7 and 7Plus at 17:00 AWST, allowing fans to witness this exciting reunion of Fremantle’s finest legends.
