On Friday 7th of March 2025, at Wrest Point, the Hobart Airport SFL proudly hosted its inaugural Life Membership event, celebrating 34 legends of the competition as the first-ever Life Members.

This recognition has been years in the making, with extensive research into record books and consultation with clubs and players to meet eligibility criteria. Each inductee has made a lasting impact on the SFL and football in southern Tasmania through their dedication and contributions.

A special moment of the night came when Russell Young was unexpectedly inducted, much to his surprise and with his family by his side. A former player renowned for his goal-kicking (leading the Hobart Reserves in 1932 with 9 goals*), Russell has served as SFL President and a long-standing SFL Executive member. His commitment to the game has been invaluable, is an all-round great person and his recognition is well deserved.

Congratulations to all our inaugural Life Members listed below, and we thank you for your contribution to not only the Southern Football League but also our great game!

In alphabetical order:

1. Roger Belcher – New Norfolk

2. Ashley Bennett – Claremont

3. Craig Bennett – Claremont

4. Scott Bester – Claremont

5. Timothy Bone – Cygnet

6. Nick Braslin – Lindisfarne

7. Nathan Brown – Claremont

8. Jono Bullock – Dodges Ferry

9. Tim Cannan – Dodges Ferry

10. Brad Carver – New Norfolk

11. Josh Clifford – New Norfolk

12. Jamie Curran – Dodges Ferry

13. Dave Cusick – Dodges Ferry

14. Mark Cusick – Dodges Ferry

15. Michael Darcy – Cygnet

16. Julian Direen – Cygnet

17. Mitchell Direen – Cygnet

18. Brent Dolliver – Dodges Ferry

19. Nathan Donoghue – Dodges Ferry

20. Justin Harvey – Hobart

21. Rohan Heron – New Norfolk

22. Brad Jackson – Dodges Ferry

23. Rhys Jennings – Cygnet

24. Luke Joseph – New Norfolk

25. Tye Little – Dodges Ferry

26. Andrew Lockley – Claremont

27. Ben Lovell – New Nofolk

28. Michael McGregor – Huonville Lions, Hobart, Sorell, Kingston, Kermandie

29. Kase Miller – Lindisfarne

30. Justin Myers – Lindisfarne

31. Kane Neilson – Cygnet

32. Michael Paul – Huonville Lions

33. Mathew Phillips – Lindisfarne

34. Leigh Post – New Norfolk

35. Michael Thompson – New Norfolk

36. Scott Webster – Claremont

37. Cameron Wilcox – Cygnet

38. Rusell Young – Administrator