AFL: A Guide to the Sport of Australian Football

The Basics

Australian rules football, often referred to as Aussie rules, football, or footy, is a contact sport played between two teams of 18 players each. The game is played on a large oval field, with four goalposts at each end. The objective of the game is to score points by kicking or carrying the ball through the goalposts.

History

Australian rules football was first played in the mid-1800s, and it quickly became a popular sport in Australia. The first official rules were published in 1858, and the Australian Football League (AFL) was founded in 1896.

Gameplay

Australian rules football is a fast-paced and physical game. Players use a combination of kicking, hand-balling, and tackling to move the ball down the field. The game is played in four quarters, each of which is 20 minutes long. The team with the most points at the end of the game wins.

Popularity

Australian rules football is the most popular sport in Australia, and it is also played in other countries around the world, including:

New Zealand

Papua New Guinea

Nauru

Fiji

Tonga

Conclusion

Australian rules football is a unique and exciting sport that is enjoyed by millions of people around the world. If you are ever in Australia, be sure to catch a game of footy. You won't be disappointed!