Alex Pearce’s Grand Final Dream Brings Purple Pride to Ulverstone

Fremantle captain Alex Pearce, a native of Ulverstone, is preparing for the AFL Grand Final while his hometown celebrates his journey with purple-themed festivities. The skipper talks about family, community, and the emotional impact of seeing his dad watch him play at the MCG.

By Felo News Desk · Published Fri, 25 Sep 2026 01:58:23 GMT

Fremantle’s skipper Alex Pearce is on the brink of a career‑defining moment as the Dockers head to the MCG for the AFL Grand Final. The 26‑year‑old, who grew up in the small Tasmanian town of Ulverstone, has spent the last decade turning his local roots into a national platform. As he prepares to lace up for the biggest match of the season, his hometown is throwing a purple‑themed celebration that mirrors the skipper’s own love of music and community spirit.

From Ulverstone to the MCG

Alex Pearce was drafted by Fremantle in 2013 with pick No. 37, a year after he left Ulverstone at 18. He had already made his mark in local football, debuting for the Ulverstone seniors in 2012 at just 16, and playing a B‑grade cricket premiership alongside his father, Scott, and friend Jordan Quaile. The journey from the Tasmanian coast to the AFL stage has been one of steady growth, punctuated by injury setbacks in 2017 and 2020 that saw him miss entire seasons.

Despite those hurdles, Pearce’s resilience paid off. By 2022 he had broken into Fremantle’s leadership group, becoming a key defender and a respected voice in the locker room. His leadership style, influenced by mentors like former coach Ross Lyon and teammates such as Matthew Pavlich, focuses on mental toughness and community values.

Ulverstone’s Purple Celebration

In a town that has long been proud of its football heritage, the Ulverstone Football Club has organised a friendly competition between local shops to design the best Fremantle‑themed shopfront. The local brewery, Buttons Brewing, has released a purple beer, and the lights on Leven Bridge will glow in the club’s signature colour on Friday. Ulverstone Secondary College will hold a “Purple for Pearce” day, with students and staff donning the skipper’s team colours to show support.

Friends and family are also in attendance. Pearce’s mother, Karen, a prominent figure in Tasmania’s equestrian scene, will be his guest at the Dockers’ best‑and‑fairest count, while his sister Georgia, a former Pony Club Australia representative, will cheer from the sidelines. The town’s collective pride is palpable, with local media describing the atmosphere as “buzzing” and “full of love for him.”

Family, Heritage, and the Emotional Weight of the Final

When asked what his father, Scott Pearce, might feel watching Alex run onto the MCG, the skipper admitted he could become emotional. “My parents have been with me every step of the way,” he said. “It means a lot to be able to share this with my mum, dad and sister.” Scott, the president of the Ulverstone Football Club, has been a pillar of support throughout Alex’s career, and the prospect of seeing his son perform on the biggest stage in Australian sport is a moment of immense pride for the family.

Beyond family, Pearce’s Palawa heritage has also played a role in shaping his identity. He has spoken publicly about the confidence he gained at Fremantle to explore his Indigenous roots, and how that sense of belonging fuels his performance on the field.

What Lies Ahead for Pearce and the Dockers

While the Dockers have a long way to go to secure a premiership, Pearce remains focused on the present. He has made it clear that speculation about a future move to the Tasmania Devils in 2028 is not a distraction. “I’ve done a really good job of not thinking about that, and particularly at this time of the year I have much bigger things to worry about,” he said.

As the Grand Final approaches, Pearce is also preparing for the cultural aspects of the event. He nominated Canadian rock duo Angine de Poitrine as his preferred act for the AFL Grand Final’s entertainment lineup, a choice that reflects his love of music and willingness to bring a fresh perspective to the game’s traditional atmosphere.

Community Impact and Legacy

Jordan Quaile and Brady Grey, Pearce’s lifelong friend and former teammate, both emphasise how the skipper’s ties to Ulverstone remain strong. “When you move away, you appreciate what you had growing up even more,” Quaile said. “Alex is a strong man who stands up for the right things.” Grey echoed this sentiment, noting the Pearce family’s reputation for community involvement and personal kindness.

For the people of Ulverstone, Pearce’s journey is a source of inspiration. He has become a role model for young athletes, demonstrating that dedication, resilience, and staying true to one’s roots can lead to success on the national stage.

As the Dockers prepare to take the field, the town of Ulverstone will be watching from afar, proud of a local lad who has carried their purple pride into the spotlight of the AFL Grand Final.

Why This Matters

Alex Pearce’s story highlights the powerful connection between local communities and professional sport. It showcases how hometown support can fuel an athlete’s ambition and how success on the national stage can, in turn, uplift and inspire the community that raised them.

Key facts

Alex Pearce is heading to the AFL Grand Final after a decade of growth from Ulverstone.
Ulverstone is celebrating with purple‑themed events and local beer.
Family, heritage, and community support are central to Pearce’s emotional journey.
Despite speculation, Pearce remains focused on the present and the Dockers’ success.
His story inspires young athletes in Tasmania and beyond.

Why it matters

Alex Pearce’s journey from a small Tasmanian town to the AFL Grand Final exemplifies how community roots can shape professional success, inspiring both local fans and aspiring athletes.