Stefan Leyhane is a distinguished and dedicated member of the AFL Ontario community, known for his extensive contributions as a player, executive, and leader. His long-standing involvement with the Broadview Hawks from 1994 to 2010 saw him play 200 games and score 31 goals. His leadership on the field was evident as he served as the club captain from 1997 to 2009, leading the team in 171 games.
Stefan’s executive roles within the Broadview Hawks included serving as President from 1999 to 2009. His influence extended to broader league administration as well, where he served as CAFA Secretary in 1999, Vice President in 2000, OAFL Secretary in 2003, and President in 2004. His strategic vision and leadership were instrumental in guiding both his club and the league through significant periods of growth and development.
On the national stage, Stefan was a key player for Team Canada Northwind from 2001 to 2009, playing 25 games and captaining the team for 14 of those games between 2003 and 2009. His outstanding performance earned him a place in the AFL International Cup All Star Team in 2002.
Additionally, he was a mainstay of the All Ontario Team from 2003 to 2009 and captained the team in 2004. Stefan’s dedication to the sport has been recognized with numerous awards and honours, including CAFA Rookie of the Year and Broadview Hawks Rookie of the Year in 1994, Broadview Hawks Best & Fairest in 1997, and life membership with the Broadview Hawks in 2010.
Stefan’s legacy in AFL Ontario is marked by his exceptional leadership, commitment, and passion for the sport, inspiring future generations of players and contributing to the continued success of Australian Football in the region.
Clubs
Broadview Hawks, 1994-2010
- Games: 200
- Goals: 31
Canada Northwind, 2001-2009
- Games: 25
Awards & Honours
- AFL Ontario Hall of Fame, 2022
- Broadview Hawks Life Member, 2010
- AFL International Cup All Star Team, 2002
- Canada Northwind Captain, 2003-2009
- CAFA Rookie of the Year, 1994
- All Ontario Team, 2003-2009
- All Ontario Team Captain, 2004
- Broadview Hawks Best & Fairest, 1997
- Broadview Hawks Rookie of the Year, 1994
- AFL Ontario Best Canadian named Stefan Leyhane Award, 2022
- Broadview Hawks Best & Fairest named Stefan Leyhane Award, 2011
Executive Roles
- AFL Ontario President, 2004
- CAFA Vice President, 2000
- CAFA Secretary, 1999
- AFL Ontario Secretary, 2003
- Broadview Hawks President, 1999-2009