Albany Vikings duo inducted into the WA AFL Masters Hall of Fame for years of contribution to the game

Two Albany Vikings greats have been recognised at the highest level, with Peter Smith and Brett Hall inducted into the WA AFL Masters Hall of Fame last month.

Honoured at a ceremony at the Rendezvous Hotel Scarborough on March 7, the pair were celebrated for their decades-long contribution to football in Albany and across WA, both on and off the field.

The AFL Masters Hall of Fame recognises individuals whose dedication, leadership and achievements have left a lasting impact on the game, acknowledging outstanding service and a commitment that has helped shape clubs, competitions and the wider community.

Smith competed in Super Rules Masters from 1997 to 2022, representing WA at 17 national carnivals, earning All-Australian honours eight times and claimed five fairest and best awards.

He said the induction was a humbling honour after a lifetime spent involved in the football community.

“It’s an honour and you don’t expect these things but if you play long enough and get involved at different club levels, people see you,” Smith said.

Smith has been part of the national football competition for many years and said he has created many lasting memories with friends and family.

“The first national carnival I went to was 1997 in Geelong and it was called super rules — it wasn’t masters then,” he said.

“I played in 17 national carnivals and we used to make it a bit of a family holiday.”

Smith said some of his career highlights were playing in small country towns and being able to share his love of footy with his sons.

“Playing football at Boxwood Hill, there was some good moments there,” he said.

“Playing finals with my sons in the reserves comp and coaching nippers — it was all very good, especially winning a few premierships and the social side of clubs is very important.”

Hall has played in the AFL Masters since 2009 and has competed in 12 national carnivals.

While playing in masters, Hall has been part of seven State premierships with one premiership as captain, has had eight All-Australian selections, has been carnival age group fairest and best player three times and has been awarded WA fairest and best twice.

Hall said to be inducted into the hall of fame was a very special honour.

“It’s pretty awesome; I’m very very proud of the achievement,” he said.

“It’s pretty elite to be part of the hall of fame and a pretty massive achievement because you have to be recognised by your peers and thought of being worthy to get it.”

He said during his masters career there had been a lot of stand-out moments.

“A memorable moment for me is probably the first title we won in Adelaide in 2014,” Hall said.

Hall said anyone considering masters football should take the leap.

“Just do it because your a long-time retired,” he said.