The Basics of AFL
Australian Rules Football, often called AFL or Aussie Rules, is a unique and exciting sport played primarily in Australia. Unlike many other football codes, AFL is played on an oval-shaped field and involves a high degree of athleticism, skill, and strategic gameplay. It's a fast-paced, free-flowing game that can seem confusing at first, but with a little understanding, it becomes incredibly engaging.
The objective of AFL is simple: score more points than the opposing team. Players advance the ball down the field by kicking, handballing (punching the ball with a clenched fist), or running with it. Tackling is allowed, but only between the shoulders and knees. The game is known for its spectacular marks (catches), long kicks, and intense physical contests.
Key Rules and Terminology
Understanding the rules and terminology is crucial for enjoying AFL. Here are some essential terms and concepts:
Mark: A clean catch of a kicked ball that has travelled more than 15 metres without being touched. The player who marks the ball is entitled to a free kick.
Handball: Striking the ball out of your hand with a clenched fist. It's a legal way to dispose of the ball.
Tackle: Grabbing a player in possession of the ball below the shoulders and above the knees. Players must not be tackled above the shoulders (high tackle), or pushed in the back.
Shepherd: Blocking or protecting a teammate who is running with the ball. This is legal as long as it's done within 5 metres of the ball carrier.
Spoil: Punching or knocking the ball away from an opponent who is attempting to mark it.
Holding the Ball: A player who is tackled while in possession of the ball must dispose of it legally immediately. If they don't, they will be penalised for holding the ball.
Out of Bounds: When the ball goes over the boundary line. Play restarts with a throw-in by a boundary umpire.
Free Kick: Awarded to a player when an opponent infringes a rule.
50-metre Penalty: A penalty awarded to a player when an opponent commits an infraction after they have been awarded a free kick. The player advances 50 metres towards the goal.
Common Infringements
High Tackle: Tackling a player above the shoulders.
Push in the Back: Pushing a player in the back.
Holding the Man: Holding a player who is not in possession of the ball.
Tripping: Intentionally tripping an opponent.
Scoring System
In AFL, teams score points by kicking the ball between the goalposts. There are two types of scores:
Goal: A goal is worth 6 points and is scored when the ball is kicked cleanly between the two tall centre posts (goalposts) without being touched by another player. It can be kicked off the ground or from a player's boot.
Behind: A behind is worth 1 point and is scored in several ways:
When the ball passes between a goal post and a behind post (the smaller posts on either side of the goalposts).
When the ball hits a goal post or a behind post.
When a player kicks the ball through the goalposts but it is touched by another player on the way through.
When the ball is forced through the goalposts by a player defending their own goal (a rushed behind).
The score is typically displayed as follows: Team A (Goals.Behinds.Total). For example, if Team A has kicked 10 goals and 5 behinds, their score would be displayed as 10.5.65.
Positions and Roles
AFL teams consist of 18 players on the field at any one time, with several interchange players on the bench. Each player typically has a designated position and role, although players often rotate throughout the game. Here are some of the key positions:
Full-Back: Defends the goal square and prevents the opposition from scoring.
Half-Back: Provides defensive support and intercepts the ball as it comes out of the defensive zone.
Centre Half-Back: A key defensive position, often marking the opposition's best forward.
Wing: Runs up and down the wings of the field, linking defence and attack.
Centre: Starts in the centre square at the beginning of each quarter and after each goal, contesting the ball in the centre bounce.
Half-Forward: Bridges the gap between the midfield and the forward line, creating scoring opportunities.
Full-Forward: The primary goal scorer, positioned close to the opposition's goal.
Ruckman: Contests the ball at centre bounces and around the ground, using their height and strength to win possession.
Rover: A small, quick player who follows the ruckman and picks up loose balls around the ground.
These are just some of the basic positions. Teams often adjust their structures and player roles depending on the game situation and their opponent's strengths and weaknesses. To learn more about Sportscenter, visit our about page.
Strategies and Tactics
AFL is a highly strategic game, with coaches and players constantly adapting their tactics to gain an advantage. Some common strategies include:
Zone Defence: Players defend specific areas of the ground rather than directly marking opponents.
Man-on-Man Defence: Players are assigned to directly mark specific opponents.
Forward Press: Applying pressure to the opposition's defence to force turnovers and create scoring opportunities.
Contested Ball: Winning the ball in a one-on-one contest, often through tackling and physical strength.
Run and Carry: Players running with the ball to gain ground and create attacking opportunities. This is often followed by a long kick to a teammate in a better position.
Using the Corridor: Kicking the ball through the centre of the ground to create quick scoring opportunities.
Coaches also use various tactical adjustments throughout the game, such as changing player positions, adjusting defensive structures, and implementing specific game plans to exploit their opponent's weaknesses. Understanding these strategies can greatly enhance your enjoyment of watching AFL.
AFL History and Culture
Australian Rules Football has a rich history dating back to 1858. It was developed in Melbourne, Victoria, as a way to keep cricketers fit during the winter months. The game quickly gained popularity and spread throughout Australia.
The Victorian Football League (VFL) was formed in 1897, and in 1990, it was rebranded as the Australian Football League (AFL) to reflect its national presence. The AFL is now the premier Australian Rules Football competition in the world, featuring 18 teams from across Australia.
AFL is more than just a sport in Australia; it's a cultural phenomenon. The game is deeply ingrained in Australian society, with passionate supporters and a strong sense of community. Attending an AFL game is a unique experience, with the roar of the crowd, the excitement of the contest, and the camaraderie among fans creating an unforgettable atmosphere. Many fans also enjoy our services to stay fit and active themselves.
The AFL Grand Final, held annually at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), is one of the biggest sporting events in Australia, attracting huge crowds and television audiences. Winning the Grand Final is the ultimate goal for every AFL team and player.
From its humble beginnings as a way to keep cricketers fit to its current status as a national obsession, Australian Rules Football has a long and fascinating history. Understanding this history and culture can deepen your appreciation for the game and its significance in Australian society. If you have any frequently asked questions, check out our FAQ page.