Fremantle will bid farewell to a true club legend as five-time leading goalkicker Michael Walters, affectionately known as ‘Sonny’, announced his immediate retirement. Walters is cutting short his 17th season with the club, as persistent injuries have prevented him from adding to his game tally this season. Ironically, his final appearance was as captain of the Indigenous All Stars, leading them to victory over the Dockers in a pre-season exhibition match in February.

Walters retires as a monumental figure in Fremantle’s history. Drafted with pick 53 in 2008, he went on to kick 365 goals from 239 games. His illustrious career saw him earn an All-Australian blazer and life membership in 2019. He stands second only to Hall of Famer Matthew Pavlich in career goals for the club, and ranks seventh for games played, just one behind Nat Fyfe. He is also second to Michael Johnson (244) for Indigenous games played. Walters was a vital part of the 2013 grand final side, contributing two goals in a losing effort. Despite the Dockers’ current ambitions to climb the premiership mountain, the 34-year-old expressed peace with his decision, stating, “While mentally I am still committed, unfortunately my body wouldn’t allow me to continue playing. I never left a stone unturned, I tried to return and play again at the top level, and it just didn’t work out.”

Walters paid heartfelt tribute to his family, acknowledging their immense support throughout his football journey. He recalled his mother’s dedication in his junior footy days, his father’s role as his first idol and constant source of feedback, and his brother’s unwavering support. He also credited his wife, Marnie, and his children for giving him purpose both in life and football.

Growing up on Bushby Street in Midvale, the same area as West Coast’s Nic Naitanui and Carlton’s Chris Yarran, Walters was drafted after playing just two league games for Swan Districts. After a challenging start with only 13 games in his first three seasons, he was sent back to the WAFL to improve his fitness. This stint proved pivotal, as he emerged as one of the best small forwards in the competition. Joe Brierty, executive general manager of football, lauded Walters as an inspiration: “Sonny has inspired a generation over his career, not just as a footballer, but a leader, a mentor and a cultural custodian. He’s shown that with hard work, belief and pride in culture, you can overcome anything and thrive.”

Walters quickly became a fan favourite for the Freo faithful, consistently delivering match-turning moments. He showcased versatility throughout his career, transitioning from a forward to the midfield, then back to the forward line, and eventually playing largely as a sub. He was the ultimate team player, and his care for others extended beyond the field. Despite his many on-field highlights, Walters hopes his greatest legacy will be his role as a positive influence. “I’m just a boy from Midland who wanted to play the game that he loved,” he reflected. “After being drafted, I saw how people from the community looked up to me, and I wanted to be a role model for them to show that if I can make it, they can make it. Later on in my career, I found a purpose, and that purpose was to play for the next generation and give them some sort of inspiration. I wanted to be an example for kids in my area to let them know that it doesn’t matter where you come from or what size you are, if you work hard, you can make it, and I feel I have done that to the best of my ability.”