Australian Rules Football, commonly referred to as AFL, is one of Australia’s most beloved sports. Yet for newcomers, one question often arises: Why is AFL called football? In most parts of the world, “football” refers to soccer, while in the United States, it’s synonymous with American football. In Australia, however, AFL is the dominant sport referred to as football, especially in regions like Victoria, South Australia, and Western Australia.
This article explores the reasons behind this naming convention, delves into AFL’s history and cultural significance, and explains how it earned its spot as Australia’s version of “football.”
What Is AFL?
Origins of Australian Rules Football
Australian Rules Football was born in Melbourne in the mid-19th century. The sport was designed to keep cricketers fit during the off-season and quickly evolved into a uniquely Australian pastime.
- First Game: Played in 1858 between Scotch College and Melbourne Grammar School.
- Official Formation: The Victorian Football Association (VFA) was established in 1877, laying the groundwork for the modern Australian Football League (AFL).
Key Characteristics of AFL
- Field: Played on a large, oval-shaped field, often a cricket ground.
- Players: Each team has 18 players on the field.
- Ball: An oval-shaped ball designed for kicking, handballing, and bouncing.
- Scoring: Teams score by kicking the ball between goalposts for 6 points (goal) or 1 point (behind).
Why Is AFL Called Football in Australia?
1. The Game Is Played With the Feet
AFL involves significant use of the feet. Players kick the ball to pass to teammates or score goals. This emphasis on kicking aligns with the traditional definition of football as a sport played predominantly with the feet.
2. Historical Context
When Australian Rules Football was established, it was modeled loosely on football codes from England, particularly rugby and early soccer. At the time, these games were also referred to as “football.” The name carried over as the sport developed its unique identity.
3. Dominance in Key Regions
In states like Victoria, South Australia, and Western Australia, AFL is the most popular sport and has long been referred to simply as “footy” or “football.” This dominance solidified its claim to the name.
Regional Differences in the Use of “Football”
While AFL is widely called “football” in certain states, the term means different things across Australia:
- Victoria, South Australia, Western Australia, and Tasmania: “Football” almost always refers to AFL.
- New South Wales and Queensland: Rugby League and Rugby Union dominate, so “football” often refers to these codes, though soccer is gaining recognition.
How AFL Differs From Other Football Codes
Comparison to Soccer
| Aspect | AFL | Soccer |
|---|---|---|
| Field Shape | Oval | Rectangular |
| Ball Shape | Oval | Round |
| Players | 18 per team | 11 per team |
| Scoring | Goals (6 points) and behinds (1 point) | Goals (1 point each) |
Comparison to Rugby
| Aspect | AFL | Rugby (League/Union) |
|---|---|---|
| Contact | Tackling is allowed but less frequent | Heavy tackling central to gameplay |
| Field Size | Larger oval-shaped field | Smaller rectangular field |
| Scoring | High-scoring games | Tries and conversions are fewer in number |
Cultural Significance of AFL in Australia
A Symbol of Australian Identity
AFL is deeply ingrained in Australian culture. From the AFL Grand Final, which attracts over 100,000 spectators to the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), to local community leagues, it represents a shared passion for the sport.
A Unifying Force
In cities like Melbourne, AFL isn’t just a sport—it’s a way of life. Clubs like Collingwood, Carlton, and Richmond boast passionate fanbases, and rivalries can be intense yet community-building.
Influence on Language
The term “footy” is synonymous with AFL in most of Australia, underscoring its cultural dominance. This colloquialism reflects the sport’s deep connection with the everyday lives of Australians.
Fun Facts About AFL and Its Name
- Oldest Clubs: The Melbourne Football Club and Geelong Football Club are among the oldest professional football clubs in the world.
- Longest Kick: The longest recorded kick in AFL history was 85 meters.
- Marn Grook Influence: Some historians suggest that AFL was inspired in part by Marn Grook, an Indigenous Australian game.
The Global Perspective: Why AFL Isn’t Called “Soccer” or “Rugby”
Globally, “football” most often refers to soccer, governed by FIFA. In Australia, soccer was historically a less popular sport, allowing AFL to dominate the term “football.” Meanwhile, rugby codes (league and union) have their own distinct names and fanbases, further differentiating them from AFL.
Challenges of AFL’s Naming Convention
International Confusion
For international audiences, the term “football” can lead to confusion. Outside of Australia, “football” often means soccer or American football, depending on the region.
Growing Soccer Popularity
As soccer gains popularity in Australia, particularly with events like the FIFA Women’s World Cup, there is a growing push to differentiate it from AFL by consistently calling it “football.”
Why AFL Fans Embrace the Term “Football”
For AFL fans, calling the sport “football” is a point of pride. It acknowledges AFL’s rich history, its deep connection to Australian culture, and its status as the country’s most popular and unique sporting code.
Conclusion
So, why is AFL called football? The answer lies in its origins, gameplay, and cultural dominance in key Australian regions. AFL’s reliance on kicking, its historical ties to football codes, and its widespread popularity in states like Victoria have cemented its claim to the term “football.”
Whether you’re a die-hard AFL fan or just curious about the sport, understanding its naming convention provides insight into its unique place in Australian culture. AFL isn’t just a game—it’s Australia’s game, and for many, it’s the true definition of “football.”
Call to Action
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External High-Authority Links
- AFL Official Website: Stay updated on the latest news, fixtures, and results.
- Football Australia: Explore how soccer and AFL coexist in Australia.
- Australian Sports Museum: Discover the history of AFL and its cultural significance.
See Also: Do They Play AFL in the UK?
