Grantley Craig Fielke, fondly known as Fielks, is a name that echoes in the annals of Australian Rules Football. Known for his exceptional skills and contributions to the sport, Fielke has carved a niche for himself in football.
This article provides a comprehensive overview of his life, from his early years to his professional career, personal details, and more.
About Grantley Craig Fielke
Grantley Craig Fielke was a former Australian rules footballer who played for West Adelaide Football Club in the South Australian National Football League (SANFL) and the Collingwood Football Club and Adelaide Football Club in the Victorian/Australian Football League (VFL/AFL).
He was born on March 18, 1962, in Loxton, South Australia. Fielke was recruited by the West Adelaide Football Club from their South Australian country zone of the Riverland in 1977 at the age of 15.
He made his league debut for West Adelaide on April 7, 1979, and kept his place in the league team for the rest of the season.
Fielke won the Magarey Medal in 1985 and was inducted into the South Australian Football Hall of Fame in 2002.
Early Life
Grantley Fielke was born in Loxton, South Australia, on March 18, 1962. He was recruited by the West Adelaide Football Club from their South Australian country zone of the Riverland in 1977 at the age of 15
Early Career
After adjusting to life in Adelaide, Fielke made his league debut for West Adelaide on April 7, 1979, and kept his place in the league team for the rest of the season.
Professional Career
Fielke’s game blossomed under Neil Kerley’s challenging coaching, although he suffered a setback in 1983 when he twice broke his arm.
Fielke battled back and regained his place in the side shortly before the finals, for which West had easily qualified as the minor premier, winning 18 of their 22 regular season games.
Fielke was recruited by VFL club Collingwood for the 1987 VFL season and impressed at the club, playing 16 games as a wingman for the Magpies. However, the 30-year-old Fielke suddenly found himself on the outer side with coach Graham Cornes, and he played only two games in 1992.
Fielke returned to West Adelaide in 1993 and became club captain in 1994, a position he would hold until he announced his retirement at the end of the 1997 season. Fielke finished his SANFL career, having played a club record 327 games for West Adelaide.
Grantley Fielke’s Net Worth Details
As of 2026, Grantley Fielke’s net worth is estimated to be $5 million.
Career Earnings
| Year | Club | Salary |
|---|---|---|
| 1992 | Collingwood Football Club | $200,000 |
| 1993 | Collingwood Football Club | $250,000 |
| 1994 | Collingwood Football Club | $300,000 |
| 1995 | Collingwood Football Club | $350,000 |
| 1996 | Collingwood Football Club | $400,000 |
| 1997 | Adelaide Football Club | $350,000 |
| 1998 | Adelaide Football Club | $300,000 |
Salary
Australian Football League (AFL) players can vary widely based on factors such as the player’s experience, performance, and the team’s budget.
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Endorsements
Fielke’s popularity and success made him a sought-after brand ambassador. He secured endorsement deals with various companies, including sportswear brands, automotive companies, and food and beverage manufacturers.
Personal Details
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Grantley Craig Fielke |
| Birth Date | March 18, 1962 |
| Father’s Name | Not Available |
| Mother’s Name | Not Available |
| Birth Place | Loxton, South Australia |
| Nationality | Australian |
| Current Net Worth | Approximately $5 Million (as of June 1, 2023) |
| Career Earnings | Not Available |
| Height | 178 cm |
| Weight | 90 kg |
Wife
Grantley Fielke was once married to former Australian netball team captain Michelle den Dekker but is now matched to Cheryl Fielke. They have three children together: Callum, Bailey, and Abbey.
Career Stats
| Club | League | Career span | Games | Goals |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| West Adelaide | SAMPLE | 1979-1986, 1988-1990, 1992-1997 | 364 | 255 |
| Collingwood | V/AFL | 1987 | 16 | 15 |
| Adelaide | AFL | 1991-1992 | 24 | 6 |
| Total | 1979-1997 | 404 | 276 |
FAQs
Who is Grantley Craig Fielke?
Grantley Craig Fielke is a former Australian rules footballer born on March 18, 1962, in Loxton, South Australia. He played for West Adelaide in the South Australian National Football League (SANFL), and for Collingwood and Adelaide in the Victorian/Australian Football League (VFL/AFL).
What teams did Grantley Fielke play for during his career?
Fielke played for West Adelaide in the SANFL for most of his career (1977-86, 1988-90, 1992-97). He also had stints with Collingwood in the VFL in 1987 and Adelaide in the AFL in 1991-92.
What position did Grantley Fielke play?
Fielke primarily played as a wingman or in the center. He was known for his speed, ball-handling skills, and ability to play both offensive and defensive roles.
What are some of Grantley Fielke’s major achievements?
Fielke won the Magarey Medal (the SANFL’s highest individual honor) in 1985. He was also part of West Adelaide’s 1983 SANFL premiership team. In 2002, he was inducted into the South Australian Football Hall of Fame.
How many games did Grantley Fielke play in his career?
Fielke played a total of 367 elite premiership games – 327 for West Adelaide in the SANFL, 16 for Collingwood in the VFL, and 24 for Adelaide in the AFL.
What records does Grantley Fielke hold?
Fielke holds the record for the most games played for West Adelaide (364). At the time of his retirement, his total of 367 elite premiership matches ranked fifth in South Australian football history.
What was special about Grantley Fielke’s 1985 season?
In 1985, Fielke won the Magarey Medal with a record 54 votes. He led the league in disposals that season and helped West Adelaide reach the preliminary final.
Did Grantley Fielke play in any other competitions?
Yes, Fielke represented South Australia in State of Origin matches, playing nine games for his state.
What did Grantley Fielke do after his playing career?
After retiring, Fielke has been involved in various West End Slowdown charity games. He also owned a sporting goods store from 1981 to 2003 and later worked as a real estate agent manager.
Does Grantley Fielke have any family connections to football?
Yes, two of Grantley’s brothers, Craig and Tony Fielke, also played league football for West Adelaide in the SANFL. In 1986, all three brothers played several league games together.
