Renowned for his superb high marking and kicking skills, whether passing to teammates or shooting for goal, as well as his performances in "big games", Buckenara is one of a handful of footballers to be named in two separate Teams of the Century, both on the half-forward flank.
After a brief coaching stint, the highlight of which was a runner-up finish with Subiaco, Buckenara returned to Hawthorn as an administrator and played a key role in the successful era under Alastair Clarkson.
[5] The previous year, his mother Dawn had become paralysed following a serious car accident, and with the West Coast Eagles having been granted admission into the VFL for the next season, Buckenara had been offered the vice-captaincy.
The highlight was undoubtedly his performance in the famous Preliminary final against Melbourne, showing great composure to kick five goals, the last of them later recognised as one of the sport's most unforgettable moments.
Having been awarded a free kick 50 metres from goal after being tripped by Earl Spalding, Buckenara was thinking of playing on when the final siren sounded, however the crowd noise was so loud that hardly anyone heard it.
In doing so, Stynes infringed by running across the mark, which was spotted by field umpire David Howlett who awarded Buckenara a 15-metre penalty, now bringing him within easy kicking distance.