AFL great Tony Modra is fighting for life after a serious truck crash on his South Australian property, sparking an outpouring of concern from across the football community.
The 57-year-old former Adelaide Crows and Fremantle Dockers star was reportedly driving a cattle truck when it crashed into a tree at Back Valley, near Victor Harbor, on Thursday afternoon. Emergency services were called to the scene about 5.15pm before Modra was airlifted to Flinders Medical Centre with critical injuries.
Known affectionately as “Godra” during his glittering AFL career, Modra remains one of the sport’s most iconic forwards. Renowned for his spectacular marks and goal-kicking brilliance, he booted 588 goals across 165 games and won the Coleman Medal in 1997.
The news has sent shockwaves through the AFL world, with tributes and messages of support pouring in from former teammates, fans and officials.
South Australian Premier Peter Malinauskas described Modra as “an SA icon” and praised him as a down-to-earth figure who had never forgotten his roots.
Former Port Adelaide star Kane Cornes, who has long spoken of Modra as one of his childhood heroes, said he believed the AFL legend would keep fighting.
After retiring from football in 2001, Modra stepped away from the spotlight, settling into life on a cattle farm on the Fleurieu Peninsula. But for many Australians, especially footy fans who watched his breathtaking marks in the 1990s, his legacy has never faded.
As investigations into the crash continue, the thoughts of the football world remain firmly with Modra and his family.
AFL Photos, SA Police
