The Gungahlin Jets are beyond proud to announce that Leigh McPhan has been inducted into the AFL Canberra Hall of Fame, an honour reserved for individuals who have made an outstanding and lasting contribution to Australian Football in the ACT and surrounding region. Leigh’s remarkable journey spans 50 years, during which he has been a player, coach, administrator, mentor, and inspiration to countless others. This honour recognises not only his achievements on the field, but also his unwavering commitment to growing the game and supporting the football community at every level.
Leigh’s playing career began in 1975 with West Canberra, and he has since played over 750 games across first grade, reserves, thirds, fourths, and Masters football. He is still actively involved with the Masters competition, a testament to his enduring love for the game. His time as a player included stints at West Canberra, Manuka Weston, Belconnen Magpies, ANU, and the Gungahlin Jets. He amassed 352 senior games, including 302 first grade appearances in ACTAFL and AFL Canberra competitions, and represented the region in prestigious state and representative matches. Incredibly, he was once invited to train with Footscray due to his exceptional skill and game awareness.
Equally impressive is Leigh’s legacy as a coach. He led reserve and senior teams at Belconnen and ANU to premierships, and later coached and supported both men’s and women’s teams at the Gungahlin Jets. His impact has been particularly profound in junior development, where he has shaped the football journeys of hundreds of young athletes, many of whom progressed to elite levels, including Jarrad McVeigh, Brent Staker, and Kieren Jack. Leigh also served as an assistant coach with the NSW/ACT RAMS, ACT Cats, and ACT Primary Schools sides, generously sharing his knowledge, patience, and passion.
Off the field, Leigh has served the football community with distinction. He is a life member of both Manuka (Eastlake) and West Canberra, where he was president, committee member, and board member. At the Jets, he has been a coach, selector, and mentor, embodying the values of teamwork, humility, and respect. His deep understanding of the game, calm presence under pressure, and commitment to fairness and inclusivity have earned him the respect of players, officials, and opponents alike.
Leigh’s football life has always been a family affair. His ongoing involvement would not be possible without the love and support of his family, who have stood by him through decades of long seasons, late nights, and busy weekends. Known affectionately for saying “see you in October” at the start of each season, Leigh’s dedication speaks volumes about the sacrifices he and his family have made for the game he loves.
The Gungahlin Jets and wider ACT football community are immensely proud of Leigh’s Hall of Fame induction. It is a fitting tribute to a man whose legacy is etched into the history of football in this region. Leigh McPhan continues to give back; coaching, mentoring, and inspiring the next generation, just as he always has. His story is not only one of longevity and talent, but of service, leadership, and community. Congratulations, Leigh, your contribution has been extraordinary, and this recognition is richly deserved.