The 2025 AFL Hall of Fame night really turned out to be one of those evenings where you just sit back and go, “Wow, it’s about time.” Ken Farmer was finally named a Legend. He played in the SANFL during the 1930s and 40s and kicked more goals than most people have seen in a lifetime—over 1,400, actually. His elevation to Legend status makes him the 33rd person to receive that honour. Honestly, it felt long overdue.
But what really made this Hall of Fame night stand out was the inclusion of two amazing women—Erin Phillips and Daisy Pearce. They became the first AFLW players to be inducted, which just felt right. You know how sometimes it finally clicks that change is happening? This was one of those moments. It wasn’t just about honouring the past—it was about acknowledging the future of the game too.
The 2025 Inductees – New Names, Big Stories
This year, eight people were inducted. And every single one of them brought something unique to the table. Some played recently, some way back, and a few left us years ago—but their impact is still felt.
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Erin Phillips – Not just a footy star, but a total all-rounder. She’s played at the highest levels in two sports and helped shape women’s football in ways that are hard to even explain.
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Daisy Pearce – One of the most respected AFLW players ever. She’s been a player, leader, mentor, and now a coach. Her influence stretches far beyond the field.
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Nick Riewoldt – Former St Kilda captain. Huge heart, powerful presence, and always played like he had something to prove.
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Luke Hodge – If you followed Hawthorn during their golden years, you know how tough and smart this guy was.
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Garry Lyon – A Melbourne great who also became one of footy’s better-known voices in the media.
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Greg Phillips – Played for Port Adelaide and yeah, he’s Erin’s dad. So that made the father-daughter induction moment even more special.
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Peter Darley and John Leedham – Both from the SANFL. They’ve passed away but their contributions live on.
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George Owens – Another historical name from SANFL, honoured posthumously.
Each of these names brings a different chapter to footy’s story, and together, they made this year’s group feel truly complete.
Ken Farmer Becomes a Legend – What That Means
People in South Australia have known about Ken Farmer for decades. He wasn’t just good—he was one of the best goal scorers the game’s ever seen. He played for North Adelaide, kicked over 1,400 goals, and was the league’s top scorer for 11 straight seasons. That’s not something you see every day.
Even after retiring, he coached and stayed involved in the game. For many fans, especially those from the SANFL, seeing him elevated to Legend status felt personal. Like finally, someone they grew up hearing about got the credit he earned a long time ago. It’s not just about stats—it’s about legacy. And his is massive.
AFLW Stars Finally Get Their Due
This part hit hard in a good way. Erin Phillips and Daisy Pearce getting into the Hall of Fame was more than just a celebration—it was a moment of recognition for women’s footy as a whole. Until recently, AFLW players had to wait five years after retirement to even be eligible. But now? It’s just one year, and because of that change, Erin and Daisy got in as soon as they could.
Seeing Erin standing there next to her dad, both now part of the Hall, was honestly emotional. And Daisy? Her leadership in AFLW probably shaped a whole generation of players. These two being inducted doesn’t just reflect their careers—it shows how far AFLW has come.
