The Howie Games 220: Jason Dunstall (Part B)
Sep 27, 2024
Jason Dunstall, AFL Hall of Famer and four-time premiership full-forward, reflects on a career of 1254 goals and his move into media. Hear vivid memories of the 1989 grand final, his 17-goal dominance, a serious skull injury and comeback. He also recalls live TV beginnings, radio success, working with Danny Frawley and the rise of The Bounce.
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Near Collapse In The 1989 Grand Final
- Jason Dunstall recalled the 1989 Grand Final where Hawthorn built a big lead and then nearly lost as Geelong kicked heavily in the last quarter, leaving him praying for the siren.
- He described watching the clock from goal square, feeling nervous as the margin shrank and relief when the final siren saved the win.
Old School Coaching Fueled By Stories
- Alan Jeans combined fire-and-brimstone speeches with relatable storytelling to motivate players and focus them contest by contest.
- Dunstall noted the era was far more motivational than tactical, with coaches' words treated as gospel and little player questioning.
The Day His Head Got Caved In
- Dunstall described his 1990 skull fracture when Earl Spalding's knee clipped his head, leaving a visible dent and intense pain that led to surgery with a metal plate and screws.
- He spent about a week in hospital, had 59 staples from ear to ear, and still wears the plate and screws.