It was a Friday night in March when the Sydney Swans clashed with Geelong at the SCG in 2022. It was forecast to rain as 36,000 members and fans filed into the stadium, but not even the wet weather could dampen the excitement of Buddy’s imminent 1000th goal.  

Just over 12 months later and Franklin has reflected on the extraordinary milestone, just days before he’s set to reach another. 

“Kicking 1,000 goals is definitely [my] career highlight, there’s no doubt about that,” Buddy tells Sydney Swans Media ahead of his 350th game.  

It wasn’t until late in the fourth quarter that a seamless passage of play, assisted by Callum Mills and Chad Warner, saw Franklin take the all-important mark. Despite his calm exterior at the time, the pressure was not lost on Buddy.  

“To kick the four goals, especially when you’re a bit under the pump too, it was a big stage,” he recalls. 

“To get it done on that night, it was forecast to rain, and it didn’t rain at all. I kicked the fourth goal, and it starts raining. Someone above was looking out for me for sure.” 

Tens of thousands of people stormed the field that evening to celebrate with the No. 23. Scenes which are like that of his 100th season major at Hawthorn in 2008. 

Franklin admitted that while he was just a “kid” when he booted that milestone goal, he felt the same “pure excitement” 14 years later.  

“The build-up to the game and to finally get there was a special moment,” Franklin adds, crediting the work of his teammates and both clubs for his success.  

“I’ve always said this, but to kick the 100 goals, to kick the 1000 goals. I couldn’t have done that without the [people] I played with and the two special clubs that have been awesome on my journey.  

“I couldn’t speak more highly of both clubs.” 

Watch Franklin’s full interview, here. 

Witness history as Buddy plays his 350th game at the SCG this Thursday night. Don't miss out - purchase tickets below.