The Fremantle Football Club today celebrates the extraordinary career and contribution of Michael ‘Son-Son’ Walters, after he announced his AFL retirement on Thursday. 

Walters finishes his career as a Fremantle Life Member, having played 239 AFL games, kicking 365 goals, and a five-time Fremantle leading goalkicker. 

The 34-year old say he’s at peace with the decision and believes he has left no stone unturned in trying to fight his way back from a knee injury in 2025. 

“I have been working my backside off to try and get back to play some form of footy and while mentally I am still committed, unfortunately my body wouldn’t allow me to continue playing,” Walters said. 

Affectionately known as ‘Sonny’, Walters has spent more than 15 years wearing the purple with pride, emerging as one of the most respected figures in the Club’s history. 

Since being drafted with pick No. 53 in the 2008 AFL Draft, Walters’ journey from Midvale Junior Football Club to the national stage has been nothing short of inspirational.  

His 2019 All-Australian selection and unforgettable match-winning moments have etched him into Fremantle folklore, yet it is his leadership, humility and unwavering love for the game that defines his legacy. 

Executive General Manager of Football Joe Brierty said Walters’ career was something to be admired. 

“Sonny has inspired a generation over his career, not just as a football, but a leader, a mentor and a cultural custodian,” Brierty said.  

“He had the ability to lift those around him, from young teammates to kids in the community, it was something powerful to see firsthand. 

“He’s played with x-factor, courage, and heart, but he would also lead with deep cultural pride and responsibility, never forgetting where he’s come from and who he represents.” 

Throughout his career, Walters delivered some of the most iconic and clutch performances in Fremantle’s history, with two specific moments coincidently happening in back-to-back Sir Doug Nicholls Rounds in 2019.  

His ability to rise in big games, as well as other culturally significant matches like February’s Indigenous All Stars fixture, by delivering match-turning moments with pride and power, further solidified his status as a player who inspired both on and off the field. 

In Round 10 of the 2019 season, he famously kicked the game-winning point after the siren to secure a one-point victory over Brisbane in front of a packed Optus Stadium.  

Only a week later, he etched his name into Freo footy folklore again, this time at the MCG, when he slotted the final goal with 30 seconds remaining to defeat Collingwood, capping off a six-goal performance in one of the season’s most thrilling finishes. 

Walters also rose on the biggest stages. In the 2013 finals series, he was a key figure in Fremantle’s march to its first-ever Grand Final, kicking multiple goals across the campaign including two in the Preliminary Final win over Sydney.  

His impact in RAC Derbies was equally profound, highlighted by a dominant four-goal display against West Coast in 2015.  

From his early days at Midvale and Swan Districts, to captaining the Indigenous All-Stars in 2025, Walters has consistently led with integrity and authenticity.  

He has championed Indigenous voices in football, including his role in the documentary Warriors on the Field, which explored the experience of First Nations athletes at the elite level. 

Brierty believes Walters’ influence reaches far beyond the four walls of the football club. 

“Sonny’s journey wasn’t all smooth sailing and he had to work hard to achieve the heights he did over his career,” Brierty said. 

“As a family man and teammate he was admired by so many, he is a great example for young Indigenous kids across the country to never give up on their dreams. 

“He’s shown that with hard work, belief and pride in culture, you can overcome anything and thrive.” 

Walters is humbled by the support he has had over the journey, including those close to him, who have ridden the highs and lows over his career. 

“My family has played a big part in my entire footy career,” Walters said. 

“Firstly, starting with my Mum, Dad and brother. I still remember waking up for junior footy and my mum had packed my gear and was ready to go with a warm bowl of porridge.  

“My Dad, who was my first idol, gave me my passion for footy and has given me feedback on all my games, including right up to my last one this year.  

“I’ve always looked up to my brother and he has always taken care of me and has always been in my corner throughout my entire life. 

“While my wife, Marnie, has ridden the bumps with me. We talk about purpose in life and football, and she gave me a purpose, along with my kids as well.” 

As a father of three girls Laila, Addison and Mackenzie, Walters’ legacy is also one of community and care. He has held roles as the number one ticket holder for the Perth Lynx (WNBL) and Cockburn Cougars (NBL1 West), supporting the development of WA’s next generation of athletes. 

“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.” 

As Fremantle celebrates Walters’ legacy, the Club remains immensely grateful for the passion, pride and power he has brought to the game, to the Club, and to the Indigenous community.