Australian Rules footballer who played for Collingwood and St Kilda, known for his tough and rugged playing style.
Luke Patrick Ball is a former professional Australian rules football player who made a name for himself in the Australian Football League (AFL), playing for the St Kilda and Collingwood football clubs. With a storied career spanning from 2003 to 2012, Ball is one of the only players in AFL history to have played in four consecutive grand finals for two clubs.
Born on May 25, 1984, in Melbourne, Victoria, Ball grew up in the suburb of Glen Iris with his parents and two siblings, including his older brother Matthew Ball, who also played for Hawthorn in the AFL. The brothers played for the local football club at Ashburton in their junior years, honing their skills under the guidance of their father, Ray Ball, a former footballer who played for Richmond and South Melbourne.
In 2001, Ball was drafted to the St Kilda Football Club with the priority pick number 2 overall in the AFL Draft, dubbed the "super draft." He debuted in 2003 after overcoming injury problems and choosing to play football for Xavier College in his final school year. Ball's impressive performance earned him a Rising Star nomination in his debut season, where he played 16 games and averaged 15.8 disposals per game.
In 2004, Ball played in St Kilda's Wizard Home Loans Cup-winning side, the club's second preseason cup win. He also came second in St Kilda's Trevor Barker Award for the club's best and fairest player, averaging 20 disposals and 5 tackles per game, and booting 17 goals for the season.
In 2005, Ball won the Trevor Barker Award for St Kilda's best and fairest player, tying with Stephen Milne. He also earned All-Australian selection, cementing his reputation as one of the league's top players.
In 2009, Ball moved to the Collingwood Football Club, where he played in three consecutive grand finals (2010, 2010 replay, and 2011). Throughout his career, Ball played 142 games for St Kilda and 57 games for Collingwood, earning a reputation for his versatility, strong marking, and goal-kicking ability.
Ball's impressive career has earned him several awards and accolades, including the Trevor Barker Award, All-Australian selection, and a premiership medal with Collingwood in 2010. He remains one of the most respected players in AFL history, known for his dedication, teamwork, and sportsmanship.
Since retiring from professional football in 2012, Ball has remained involved in the AFL community, working as a football commentator and analyst. He has also pursued various business ventures, including a fitness and wellness company.
Off the field, Ball is known for his dedication to his family and community. He has been involved in various charity initiatives, including the St Kilda Football Club's community program, which supports disadvantaged youth and families.
In conclusion, Luke Ball's remarkable career is a testament to his hard work, dedication, and passion for Australian rules football. As one of the league's most respected players, his legacy continues to inspire future generations of footballers and fans alike.
64 Years Old
A legendary Australian Rules footballer, known for his exceptional skills, dominant playing style, and iconic status in the sport. He is a dual premiership player and eight-time All-Australian.
41 Years Old
Australian rules football legend and dual Brownlow Medal winner, renowned for his exceptional skills, dominant playing style, and record-breaking achievements in the Australian Football League.
53 Years Old
A legendary figure in Australian Rules football, known for his exceptional playing career and successful coaching stint with the Collingwood Magpies. He's a beloved icon in the sport, revered for his leadership and tactical prowess.
38 Years Old
Australian Rules footballer and captain of the Collingwood Magpies, known for his exceptional leadership, skill, and consistency on the field. He has won numerous awards, including the Brownlow Medal.
79 Years Old
A British broadcasting legend, best known for hosting the popular TV quiz show "Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?" and his charismatic radio presence.
47 Years Old
A former Australian Rules footballer who played for the West Coast Eagles and Richmond Tigers, winning the Brownlow Medal in 2005, but also known for his off-field controversies and struggles with drug addiction.
