2020 Match Ball Legend

The East Fremantle Football Club are delighted to announce Tony Buhagiar as our Legend on the Match Ball for 2020.

The WAFL Match Ball initiative began in 2000, giving each club the opportunity to produce a special ball for their home games. Every year a player that is considered to have made a significant contribution to the club is placed on the ball.

‘Budgie’ as he is affectionately known, has been recognised for his outstanding service to The East Fremantle Football Club both on and off the field.

In 1973, at just 16 years of age, Budgie made his senior debut for The Sharks as a pint-sized rover. By 1979 he had become a Premiership player, represented Western Australia at State of Origin and gained All-Australian selection.

He went on to further his playing career in the VFL, moving to Essendon in 1981. Budgie registered 83 games for the Bombers, where he became a fan favourite for his courage, determination, skill and never-say-die attitude. He played the 1985 season for Footscray where he booted 36 goals before returning to East Fremantle in 1986 for his final football year.

Budgie has been a Patron & Vice Patron of The Sharks for ten years now, generously supporting the Club whenever and wherever he can.

When informed of the Club’s decision, the ever-humble Budgie responded, “Why would you pick me, surely there is someone better than me” – which is a reflection of his outstanding character.

Tony Buhagiar

League Career:  1973 – 1985

138 games – East Fremantle, 274 goal

83 games – Essendon – 135 goals

25 games – Footscray – 36 goals

Premiership Player: 1974 & 1979

Best First Year Player: 1973

Life Member: 2004

Patron & Vice Patron: 2009 – 2019

Jumper Number: 2