Chris Cunning is an influential figure in the AFL Ontario community, known for his extensive contributions both on and off the field. His playing career began with the Broadview Hawks from 1992 to 1995, where he played 47 games and scored 2 goals. He then joined the Toronto Dingos, playing 83 games and scoring 38 goals from 1996 to 2006 and again in 2008. He also played for the Guelph Gargoyles in 2009 and 2010, bringing his total to 135 games and 40 goals. Cunning was a part of the Toronto Dingos’ premiership-winning teams in 2000, 2003, 2004, and 2005.
In addition to his playing career, Chris has made significant contributions as an executive and coach. He served as the President of the Toronto Dingos in 1996 and 2000, and as Vice President in 1997 and 1999. He also coached the Guelph Gargoyles from 2009 to 2010. His leadership and strategic vision have been instrumental in the success and growth of these clubs.
Chris’ national team involvement includes playing for Team Canada in matches against Balmain and the UK in 1993, 1994, and 1995, where he captained the team for four games. He also served as the Vice Captain of Team Canada Northwind in 2005, playing five games, and participated in four games in 2008, totalling 13 games.
His exceptional performance and leadership have earned him numerous awards, including CAFA Rookie of the Year in 1992, multiple Best & Fairest awards with the Broadview Hawks and Toronto Dingos, and life membership with both clubs. He was also named to the All Ontario Team in 2005 and the Canadian All-Star Team in 1994, where he served as captain.
Chris’ dedication, leadership, and passion for Australian Football have left a lasting legacy in the AFL Ontario community, inspiring future generations of players and contributing to the sport’s continued success.
Clubs
Broadview Hawks, 1992-1995
- Games: 47
- Goals: 2
Toronto Dingos, 1996-2006, 2008
- Games: 83
- Goals: 38
- Premierships: 2000, 2003-2005
Guelph Gargoyles, 2009-2010
- Games: 5
Canada Northwind, 2005, 2008
- Games: 9
Awards & Honours
- AFL Ontario Hall of Fame, 2022
- CAFA Rookie of the Year, 1992
- All Ontario Team, 2005
- Canada Northwind Vice Captain, 2005
- Broadview Hawks Life Member, 1995
- Broadview Hawks Captain, 1993-1995
- Broadview Hawks Best & Fairest, 1992-1994
- Broadview Hawks Rookie of the Year, 1992
- Toronto Dingos Life Member, 2017
- Toronto Dingos Captain, 1996-2001
- Toronto Dingos Best & Fairest, 1996-1998, 2000-2001
Executive Roles
- Toronto Dingos President, 1996, 2000
- Toronto Dingos Vice President, 1997, 1999
Coaching
- Guelph Gargoyles Coach, 2009-2010