Melbourne: AFL Team Central, or How Many Beers Can You Sink During a Footy Frenzy?
Ah, Melbourne. City of laneways, trams, and a shameless obsession with a sport most of the world has never heard of. That's right, folks, we're talkin' Aussie Rules Football, or AFL as the cool kids call it. And let me tell you, Melbourne is AFL central.
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| How Many Afl Teams In Melbourne |
They Bleed Red, Blue, and Everything in Between (Except Maybe Collingwood Colours)
There are a whopping nine AFL teams calling Melbourne home, which basically means you can throw a Sherrin (the ball) in any direction and it'll land at a training ground. That's more teams than there are reasons your mate Dave keeps rocking up to the MCG in a stained guernsey (jersey).
Here's a quick rundown of Melbourne's magnificent nine (don't worry, there will be no quiz at the end):
- The Big Three: Carlton Blues, Collingwood Magpies, and Essendon Bombers. These guys are Melbourne royalty, with a combined trophy cabinet that could house a small car.
- Forever Fighting for Glory: Richmond Tigers, Melbourne Demons, and St Kilda Saints. These teams have their moments in the sun, but haven't quite reached premiership glory in recent years. Though they'll tell you differently after a few vinos.
- The New Kids on the Block: Western Bulldogs (who famously broke their premiership drought in 2016, much to the dismay of everyone else) and North Melbourne (who just really want a new stadium, please).
So Many Teams, So Little Time (and Liver)
With nine teams, that means there's a game on practically every weekend. But here's the real challenge: picking a team! Do you go for the established powerhouse, or the underdog with heart? Do you choose based on colours (because let's face it, some of those guernseys are truly horrendous), or because your dad did?
QuickTip: Use the post as a quick reference later.
The good news is, there's no wrong answer. Just be prepared to spend your weekends cheering yourself hoarse, arguing with your mates about dubious umpiring calls, and sinking more beers than you ever thought possible.
But hey, that's all part of the fun, right?
FAQ: Becoming a Melbourne AFL Fan
How to choose a team?
Tip: Break it down — section by section.
This is a personal journey, my friend. Watch some games, see whose colours you can tolerate, and who seems to have the most passionate fans (avoid Collingwood if you value your sanity).
How to understand the rules?
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There's a reason they call it "Australian Rules" – it's a bit different from other football codes. Don't worry, there are plenty of online resources to get you started. Just remember, the ball can be moved by hand, foot, or telekinesis (if you're Buddy Franklin).
QuickTip: Pause at lists — they often summarize.
How to survive a Melbourne footy season?
Invest in a good scarf (team colours, obviously), a comfortable pub with multiple TVs, and a strong liver.
How to speak fluent "footy"?
Reminder: Focus on key sentences in each paragraph.
Learn terms like "free kick," "behind," and "mark." Bonus points for mastering the subtle art of the sledging remark (think friendly insults aimed at the opposition team).
How much does it cost to go to a game?
Ticket prices vary depending on the match, but expect to pay somewhere between $30 and $100. Just remember, the atmosphere is priceless!
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