Graeme Hewitt is a foundational member of the AFL Ontario community, celebrated for his significant contributions to the sport in its early days. He played in the first official game on September 9, 1989, and umpired the first Grand Final, marking his dual role in the league’s formative events. Hewitt’s involvement has been multifaceted, encompassing playing, umpiring, and executive leadership.
Graeme’s playing career includes stints with the Toronto Panthers from 1989 to 1991, where he played 25 games and scored one goal, and with the Balmy Beach Saints from 1992 to 1994, where he played 32 games and scored one goal. He was part of the Toronto Panthers’ premiership-winning teams in 1990 and 1991, highlighting his on-field success.
In executive roles, Graeme served as CAFA Director in 1990 and President in 1991. He also held the presidency of the Toronto Panthers from 1990 to 1991 and the Balmy Beach Saints from 1992 to 1994, where he was a founder in 1992. His leadership was crucial in guiding these clubs and the league through its early years. As an umpire, Hewitt officiated the first CAFA Grand Final in 1989, showcasing his versatility and commitment to the sport.
Graeme’s contributions to Australian Football extended to the national level, where he played for Team Canada in 1993 against Balmain and the UK and was part of the Australia All Star Team from 1993 to 1994. His accolades include being named the Grand Final MVP in 1991 and winning the Best & Fairest award for Balmy Beach in 1992. Recognized as a life member of CAFA in 1994, Graeme’s legacy in AFL Ontario is marked by his passion, leadership, and enduring influence on the sport.
Foundation
- Played in first game on September 9, 1989
- Umpired first CAFA Grand Final
Clubs
Toronto Panthers, 1989-1991
- Games: 25
- Goals: 1
- Premierships: 1990-1991
Balmy Beach Saints, 1992-1994
- Games: 32
- Goals: 1
Awards & Honours
- CAFA Life Member, 1994
- AFL Ontario Hall of Fame, 2022
- Balmy Beach Saints Founder, 1992
- Balmy Beach Saints Best & Fairest, 1992
- CAFA Grand Final MVP, 1991
Executive Roles
- CAFA President, 1991
- CAFA Director, 1990
- Toronto Panthers President, 1990-1991
- Balmy Beach Saints President, 1992-1994