In a celebration that epitomised community spirit and sporting excellence, around 60 Penola Football Club life members and sponsors gathered to honour their very own Michael ‘The Flash’ Graham on his recent induction into the AFL Hall of Fame.
Guests were treated to a fascinating insight recounting Graham’s football journey, which spans an impressive 50 years.
Graham shared stories of his early days playing for the mighty Eagles, reminiscing about the challenges around his transition to Adelaide and his rise to become one of the Sturt Football Club’s all-time greats.
He spoke about his toughest opponent Barrie Robran and the love for his Penola teammates and past coaches.
A special video message from 1969-71 Penola coach Bob Bussenschutt was played on the big screen which brought back fond memories for many of his past teammates and long-time club supporters in the room.
Penola Football Club President Matt Tilby said a particularly touching moment of the day was seeing numerous Junior Colts footballers eagerly waiting in line to get a photo and their Michael Graham Hall of Fame commemorative guernseys signed by the man himself.
“It was fantastic to see,” Tilby said.
“To have a junior footballer progress through the ranks at the Eagles and go on to achieve Hall of Fame status will likely never be repeated in our lifetime.”
For Graham, the day was especially meaningful.
“Having my children Patricia, son Michael John and granddaughter Shazziah make the journey down from Darwin and Sydney was really special,” he said.
“If it was not for Penola, I would not have gone on to have the career I had.
“To have my kids and granddaughter here to share the day with me is something I’ll never forget.”
‘The Flash’ also tossed the coin prior to the A Grade game against Kybybolite.
Although the final score did not favour the Eagles, the day’s spirits remained high.
The post game festivities saw a signed guernsey and the match day footy going under the hammer, further adding to the celebration.
The homecoming celebration was fit for a legend while Graham’s legacy on the game will be remembered for a long time to come.
