hungover lance franklin shocks sam mitchell in car incident

Sam Mitchell, a former champion player for the Hawthorn Hawks, had an unforgettable first impression of Lance 'Buddy' Franklin during their early days at the club. In the 2004-05 pre-season, both Franklin and teammate Jordan Lewis, who were hungover, requested a lift from Mitchell to recovery. The ride in Mitchell's Mitsubishi Evolution turned chaotic as Franklin vomited three times before they reached the beach. Despite this rocky start, the relationship between Mitchell and Franklin flourished as they achieved significant success together, including premierships in 2008 and 2013. Reflecting on Franklin's career ahead of his retirement in 2023, Mitchell praised him for his growth from a skinny rookie into a remarkable athlete. He acknowledged the immense pressure Franklin faced both on and off the field throughout his nearly two-decade career. Mitchell expressed admiration for Franklin's achievements and the way he has matured into a respected figure in the sport. The Hawks, who have been performing well in the 2024 AFL season, are preparing for a crucial sudden-death final against Port Adelaide. Mitchell is aware of the challenges they will face, particularly in a hostile environment with a predominantly one-sided crowd. He emphasized the importance of being ready for the intense atmosphere and the significance of the upcoming match for the team's aspirations. Overall, the bond formed between Mitchell and Franklin, despite their tumultuous beginnings, has been a testament to their shared experiences and successes in the AFL, highlighting the journey of both players within the sport.