Melbourne's AFL Teams: A Numbers Game That's More Fun Than Doing Your Tax
Ah, Melbourne. The city of trams, coffee, and a truly unhinged obsession with Australian Football League (AFL). But for the newbie footy fan, navigating the Melbourne footy scene can be trickier than finding a decent park in Fitzroy Gardens on a Saturday. So, how many AFL teams actually call Melbourne home? Buckle up, because this is where things get interesting.
How Many Melbourne Afl Teams |
Don't Be a Mug: The Big Answer
There are nine glorious, Melbourne-based AFL teams ready to steal your heart (and maybe your weekends). That's right, nine. Not eight, not ten – a magnificent nine.
Here's a quick rundown of the Melbournian powerhouses:
- The Demons (Melbourne Football Club): The oldest team in the league, these guys are like the cool grandpa of Melbourne footy – full of stories and the occasional questionable fashion choice.
- The Pies (Collingwood Football Club): Loud, passionate, and with a black and white colour scheme that practically screams "we're here to win." Just don't mention the spoon too loudly around them.
- The Blues (Carlton Football Club): True blue (get it?) through and through, Carlton boasts a legion of loyal fans and a history that's as long as the queue for a snag on Grand Final day.
- The Tigers (Richmond Football Club): These yellow and black warriors have been on a tear in recent years, proving that good things (and premiership cups) can come in small packages.
- The Saints (St Kilda Football Club): They might be nicknamed the Saints, but navigating their form can feel more like a sinner's journey at times. Still, their red, white, and black colours are undeniably snazzy.
- The Bombers (Essendon Football Club): A powerhouse club with a long and decorated history, the Bombers have a passionate fanbase that bleeds red and black.
- The Hawks (Hawthorn Football Club): Though they recently relocated to Tasmania (sob!), Hawthorn will forever hold a special place in the hearts of many Melbourne fans – especially those who appreciate a winning team (they have a LOT of premierships).
- The Bulldogs (Western Bulldogs): The Dogs are proof that underdogs can bite! After a premiership win that still feels like a dream, the red, white, and blue of the Bulldogs is a force to be reckoned with.
- The Kangaroos (North Melbourne Football Club): Though not strictly Melbourne-based (they play some games in Tasmania too), the North Melbourne Kangaroos have a strong Melbourne following and a fighting spirit that's hard to ignore.
The Plot Thickens: A Brief History Lesson (Because Why Not?)
Melbourne's dominance in AFL goes way back. The league itself started in Victoria, and Melbourne was once the undisputed footy capital. But fear not, history buffs, there's no need to dust off your encyclopedias. The important takeaway is this: Melbourne has a long and storied relationship with AFL, and that's why there are SO MANY TEAMS here.
Tip: Read once for flow, once for detail.
So You Wanna Be a Melbourne Footy Fan?
Now that you know how many teams are vying for your support, here's the real question: which one will you choose? It's a life-altering decision (almost), so choose wisely, grasshopper.
Here are some handy tips:
- Location, location, location: Do you live near a particular stadium? Supporting the local team can create a real sense of community.
- Family ties: Does your family have a die-hard allegiance to a specific team? Don't be a rebel – join the family tradition!
- The underdog effect: Do you enjoy cheering for the team that nobody expects to win? There's something undeniably satisfying about that premiership win (if it ever happens).
Frequently Asked Questions (AFL Edition)
How to choose a Melbourne AFL team?
Tip: Take a sip of water, then continue fresh.
See the handy tips above!
How many games do Melbourne AFL teams play?
Each team plays 23 games in the regular season.
Tip: Pause if your attention drifts.
What's the difference between AFL and Aussie Rules?
They're basically the same thing! AFL is the official name of the professional league, while Aussie Rules is a more casual term.
When is the next AFL Grand Final?
QuickTip: Check if a section answers your question.
The AFL Grand Final is usually held on the last Saturday in September.
How do I get tickets to an AFL game?
Check the websites of the individual teams or the AFL website for ticketing information.
Now you're all set to navigate the glorious mess that is Melbourne's AFL scene.