It was the little things that meant to world to Michael Walters when he accepted his Life Membership at Fremantle.
Walters was welcomed into the prestigious group at Saturday night’s Doig Medal Presentation Dinner after the star forward/midfielder passed the 150-game milestone in the 2019 season.
Following a year where he was named All Australian, Walters thanked those closest to him for their help along the way.
“I’d love to thank my family, my Mum and Dad in particular,” Walters said.
“As a young kid my Mum – I love you to bits - I can remember when you used to wake up early mornings and make my porridge, I couldn’t play footy without having my porridge.
“My Dad, who always gives me feedback, even now, it’s somewhat annoying but thanks Dad.
“Marni my wife, thank you so much, you’re an unbelievable mother and you keep me on my toes so thank you very much.”
Walters reflected on turning his career around after missing much of the 2012 season for not meeting the required fitness standards.
“It makes me feel proud, especially all the hard work that I put in – especially when I got sent back to Swan Districts, I didn’t think I was ever going to come back and play AFL footy again,” Walters said.
“But having the tight family that I have, they forced me to play AFL footy and I’m loving it.”
