What Are the Teams in the Australian Football League?

3 min.

What Are the Teams in the Australian Football League?

The Australian Football League (AFL) is the pinnacle of Australian Rules Football, showcasing the best teams and players in the sport. With a history stretching back to 1897, the league has grown into a national phenomenon, captivating millions of fans across the country and beyond. If you’re curious about the teams that make up this prestigious competition, you’re in the right place.

This article provides an in-depth look at all the AFL teams, their histories, and what makes each one unique.

AFL Teams: A Complete List

The AFL consists of 18 teams, representing various cities and regions across Australia. These teams compete annually for the coveted Premiership Cup, awarded to the Grand Final winner at the end of the season.

1. Adelaide Crows

Established: 1991
Home Ground: Adelaide Oval, Adelaide, SA
Key Achievements: Two-time Premiers (1997, 1998).

2. Brisbane Lions

Established: 1996 (Merger of Brisbane Bears and Fitzroy Football Club).
Home Ground: The Gabba, Brisbane, QLD
Key Achievements: Three consecutive Premierships (2001–2003).

3. Carlton Blues

Established: 1864
Home Ground: Marvel Stadium, Melbourne, VIC
Key Achievements: Record 16 Premierships, tied with Essendon.

4. Collingwood Magpies

Established: 1892
Home Ground: Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Melbourne, VIC
Key Achievements: 16 Premierships. Known for their passionate fan base.

5. Essendon Bombers

Established: 1872
Home Ground: Marvel Stadium, Melbourne, VIC
Key Achievements: 16 Premierships. A powerhouse in AFL history.

6. Fremantle Dockers

Established: 1994
Home Ground: Optus Stadium, Perth, WA
Key Achievements: 2013 Grand Finalists.

7. Geelong Cats

Established: 1859
Home Ground: GMHBA Stadium, Geelong, VIC
Key Achievements: 10 Premierships, most recently in 2022.

8. Gold Coast Suns

Established: 2011
Home Ground: Heritage Bank Stadium, Gold Coast, QLD
Key Achievements: Still seeking their first finals appearance.

9. Greater Western Sydney Giants

Established: 2012
Home Ground: GIANTS Stadium, Sydney, NSW
Key Achievements: 2019 Grand Finalists.

10. Hawthorn Hawks

Established: 1902
Home Ground: MCG, Melbourne, VIC
Key Achievements: 13 Premierships, including a three-peat (2013–2015).

11. Melbourne Demons

Established: 1858
Home Ground: MCG, Melbourne, VIC
Key Achievements: 13 Premierships, including the historic 2021 victory.

12. North Melbourne Kangaroos

Established: 1869
Home Ground: Marvel Stadium, Melbourne, VIC
Key Achievements: Four Premierships (most recently in 1999).

13. Port Adelaide Power

Established: 1870 (as a SANFL team), joined AFL in 1997.
Home Ground: Adelaide Oval, Adelaide, SA
Key Achievements: 2004 Premiers.

14. Richmond Tigers

Established: 1885
Home Ground: MCG, Melbourne, VIC
Key Achievements: 13 Premierships, including three in four years (2017, 2019, 2020).

15. St Kilda Saints

Established: 1873
Home Ground: Marvel Stadium, Melbourne, VIC
Key Achievements: 1966 Premiers.

16. Sydney Swans

Established: 1874 (as South Melbourne). Relocated to Sydney in 1982.
Home Ground: SCG, Sydney, NSW
Key Achievements: Five Premierships, including 2005 and 2012.

17. West Coast Eagles

Established: 1986
Home Ground: Optus Stadium, Perth, WA
Key Achievements: Four Premierships (1992, 1994, 2006, 2018).

18. Western Bulldogs

Established: 1877
Home Ground: Marvel Stadium, Melbourne, VIC
Key Achievements: 1954 and 2016 Premiers.

The AFL Season Format

The AFL season runs from March to September, culminating in the Grand Final held at the Melbourne Cricket Ground in late September. Teams compete across a 23-round regular season, with the top 8 advancing to the finals series.

Key Competitions:

Premiership Season: Determines the top 8 for the finals.
Finals Series: A knockout tournament leading to the Grand Final.

AFL’s Impact on Australian Culture

1. National Representation

With teams across every Australian state, the AFL unites fans nationwide, fostering a shared passion for football.

2. Community Engagement

AFL teams are deeply involved in their communities, running programs that promote physical fitness, inclusivity, and youth development.

3. Iconic Rivalries

Rivalries like Collingwood vs. Carlton and Essendon vs. Hawthorn add an extra layer of excitement to the league.

External High Authority Links

For further insights into the AFL and its teams, explore these trusted resources:

AFL Official Site: Get the latest fixtures, results, and team news on the AFL website.
Wikipedia – AFL Teams: Learn more about the history of each team on Wikipedia’s AFL page.
ABC Grandstand: Follow live commentary and analysis on ABC Grandstand.

Call-to-Action: Join the AFL Action!

Now that you know all about the AFL teams, it’s time to support your favorite club. Whether you’re watching live at the stadium, tuning in on TV, or streaming online, the AFL offers unforgettable moments for fans of all ages.

Get Involved: Share your favorite AFL memories or predictions for the upcoming season in the comments below. Subscribe to our newsletter for exclusive updates, match highlights, and insider stories!