Footy great violently bashed in 'horrific' home invasion
South Australian footy legend Grantley Fielke is recovering after being attacked in an alleged home invasion.
Fielke, who played 40 AFL games with Collingwood and Adelaide, reportedly had to have facial reconstruction surgery and spent four days in hospital after the alleged attack on September 22.
The 57-year-old was reportedly attacked after returning home from a night at the South Gawler Football Club, and now has six metal plates in his face.
According to Nine News, two men have each been charged with assault causing harm.
Former players chip in for Fielke
Rod Jameson, the chairman of the Adelaide Football Club Past Players and Officials Association chairman told Channel Nine they were helping Fielke with his expenses.
“Once Grant shared the details of the horrific home invasion at his family home and the physical injuries he incurred, we were able to assist,” Jameson said.
“The financial support (is) for any out of pocket expenses his health fund didn’t cover (including) the surgeries he’s required to repair the significant damages.”
#EXCLUSIVE: @Adelaide_FC have thrown their support behind past player Grantley Fielke, who was allegedly bashed by two men inside his family home. @katelambe_ #9News pic.twitter.com/keqiOQfNH2
— Nine News Adelaide (@9NewsAdel) October 24, 2019
Fielke is a legend in South Australia, playing 364 SANFL games and winning a premiership with West Adelaide in 1983.
He won the 1985 Magarey Medal - the SANFL’s best and fairest award.
He played 16 games for Collingwood in 1987 and every game of the Crows’ inaugural season in 1991.
Get well soon Mate 😇👍.
— Toby Ryobi (@TobyRyobi) October 24, 2019
Sad to hear the great Grantley Fielke beaten up badly.
— Leigh (@lionsman33) October 24, 2019
@Adelaide_FC @WestAdelaideFC Grantley Fielke Talented skillful, exciting player. Worked tirelessly to improve. Exceptional club man and a wonderful person . One of my favorite players to coach .Wishing Grantley a speedy recovery . To the @Adelaide_FC well done for your support 👏
— john cahill (@jvcahill40) October 24, 2019