Lance Franklin: 4 things I’ve learnt about family and football

Here, Lance Franklin shares four things he’s learnt so far in his parenting journey.

Becoming a father (twice) in these tumultuous times has had a profound effect on Lance’s outlook on life.

“Fatherhood has given me a new perspective. Both of our kids were born while the world’s been battling COVID-19, which really brought home that amid all the stress of games, training and lockdown, the most important thing is that you’ve got a happy and healthy family,” he says. “We just feel lucky to have our health during these unpredictable times and have the support of the Swans and the AFL.”

Athletic performance seems embedded in the DNA of the Franklin family. “My father was a professional hockey player,” Lance says. “You could say a love of sport was inherited – my passion was always to play AFL.”

Lance’s sister, Bianca, pursued a career in professional netball. “My siblings and I love[d] to play sports together,” Lance recalls. “We had a natural competitive nature, so it was a great way for us to bond.”

Reflecting on his own childhood, Lance now appreciates his parents' efforts in helping their kids discover and explore their interests. “My parents sacrificed a lot of time for us to pursue our passions and I’m forever grateful for their commitment.”

It’s this same level of dedication that Lance hopes to provide to his own children.

Recently, they attended their first-ever footy game. “It was really fulfilling,” he says of having his family in the stands. “To know that it was the first of many for them to watch me play, it brings a whole new level.”

Physical activity is something that Lance regards as playing a key role in the development of children. “Sports teaches very important life skills – it helps children experience teamwork, independence, resilience and discipline,” he says. “Not to mention the benefits that come with being healthy and active.”

Lance also sees sport as a learning opportunity, especially when it comes to competition. “There will always be a winning side and a losing side,” he says. “While losing can be disappointing, bouncing back and learning from it is the most important part. The real winners are the ones who find motivation and growth.”

Still, he’s not putting any pressure on the kids to follow directly in his footsteps. “I feel it’s important our children have their own identities and not feel any pressure to play AFL,” Lance says. “Jesinta and I are committed to supporting and nurturing their passions – be [they] creative, athletic or academic.”

As for the immediate future, Lance is most looking forward to spending some quality time with his family. “I’m separated from Jes and the kids at the moment and it’s really hard to be away,” he says. “When we’re reunited, I will definitely be soaking all the family time up!”

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Staff writers come from a range of backgrounds including health, wellbeing, music, tech, culture and the arts. They spend their time researching the latest data and trends in the health market to deliver up-to-date information, helping everyday Australians live healthier lives. This is general information only and is not intended as medical, health, nutritional or other advice. You should obtain professional advice from a medical or health practitioner in relation to your own personal circumstances. The information in this article is general information only and is not intended as medical, health, nutritional or other advice. You should obtain professional advice from a medical or health practitioner in relation to your own personal circumstances