What Is the Oldest AFL Team?

4 min.

Australian Rules Football, or AFL, is deeply embedded in the fabric of Australian culture. With a rich history spanning over 160 years, the AFL has evolved into one of the country’s most iconic sports. But amidst its modern-day glory lies the intriguing question: What is the oldest AFL team?

In this article, we delve into the origins of the AFL, uncovering which team can lay claim to being the oldest, exploring their history, and celebrating their enduring legacy.

A Brief History of the AFL

The AFL traces its roots back to 1858, making it one of the oldest organized football competitions in the world. What began as a way for cricketers to stay fit during the winter evolved into a national phenomenon that captivates millions every year.

From VFL to AFL

The Victorian Football League (VFL) was established in 1896, with its inaugural season played in 1897. Over time, the league expanded beyond Victoria, rebranding as the Australian Football League (AFL) in 1990.

The Oldest AFL Team

Melbourne Football Club: The Birthplace of Aussie Rules Football

The Melbourne Football Club (MFC) holds the honor of being the oldest AFL team, officially founded in 1858. Widely regarded as the “founders of Australian Rules Football,” Melbourne FC played a pivotal role in codifying the rules of the game.

Key Facts About Melbourne Football Club:

Founded: 1858
Nicknames: Demons, Dees
Home Ground: Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG)
Premierships: 13 (most recent in 2021)

Melbourne FC’s formation was driven by Tom Wills, a cricketer who sought to create a game suitable for winter fitness. His efforts laid the foundation for the sport we know today.

Other Historic AFL Teams

While Melbourne FC is the oldest, several other teams have storied pasts that began in the 19th century. Here’s a look at some of them:

Geelong Football Club

Founded in 1859, the Geelong Cats are the second-oldest AFL team. Known for their passionate fanbase and success on the field, Geelong has contributed significantly to the AFL’s rich history.

Premierships: 10 (most recent in 2022)
Nickname: Cats

Carlton Football Club

Established in 1864, the Carlton Blues are among the most successful clubs in AFL history, with 16 premierships. Carlton’s rivalry with Collingwood is one of the fiercest in the league.

Collingwood Football Club

Founded in 1892, the Collingwood Magpies have a storied history and one of the largest supporter bases in the league. Their iconic black and white stripes are instantly recognizable.

Melbourne FC’s Influence on AFL

Melbourne FC’s legacy extends far beyond being the oldest club. It played a crucial role in shaping the AFL’s identity:

Codifying the Rules
Melbourne’s founders, including Tom Wills and James Thompson, were instrumental in creating the first set of Australian Rules Football guidelines.
The Premiership Legacy
Melbourne FC was a dominant force in the league’s early years, winning multiple premierships and cementing its reputation as a powerhouse.
Cultural Impact
The Demons are synonymous with the MCG, the spiritual home of Aussie Rules football.

Challenges and Triumphs Over the Years

The journey of being the oldest AFL team hasn’t always been smooth. Melbourne FC faced several challenges, including:

Periods of Poor Performance: Between 1964 and 2021, the Demons endured the longest premiership drought in AFL history.
Financial Struggles: Like many clubs, Melbourne faced financial instability during the late 20th century.

However, the club’s resilience shone through, culminating in their triumphant 2021 premiership win, which ended a 57-year drought.

Rivalries That Shaped the League

Melbourne FC’s rivalries with other historic clubs, such as Collingwood, Essendon, and Carlton, have shaped the league’s narrative. These matchups draw large crowds and evoke a sense of nostalgia, connecting modern fans with the sport’s rich history.

Interesting Facts About the Melbourne Demons

The First Game: Melbourne FC participated in what is considered the first official Aussie Rules match in 1858 against Scotch College.
Name Origin: The club was initially nicknamed “The Redlegs” due to its red socks but later adopted “Demons” to reflect their competitive spirit.
MCG as a Fortress: The MCG, where Melbourne plays its home games, is the largest stadium in the Southern Hemisphere.

How Melbourne FC Compares Today

While their historical significance is unmatched, Melbourne FC continues to thrive in the modern AFL. Under the leadership of key players like Christian Petracca and Clayton Oliver, the Demons remain a formidable force.

FAQs About AFL History

1. What Is the Second-Oldest AFL Team?

The Geelong Cats, founded in 1859, hold the distinction of being the second-oldest AFL team.

2. Why Is Melbourne FC Called the Demons?

The nickname “Demons” reflects the club’s aggressive and determined playing style, adopted in the early 20th century.

3. How Many Premierships Has Melbourne Won?

Melbourne FC has won 13 premierships, with their most recent triumph in 2021.

The AFL’s Future: Building on a Historic Legacy

The AFL continues to grow, with its historic teams like Melbourne FC at the forefront. By embracing innovation while honoring tradition, the league ensures that its storied past remains a cornerstone of its future.

Conclusion

The Melbourne Football Club is more than just the oldest AFL team—it is the foundation upon which Australian Rules Football was built. From its humble beginnings in 1858 to its modern-day triumphs, Melbourne FC exemplifies the enduring spirit of the sport. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or new to Aussie Rules football, the story of the Demons is a testament to the rich history and bright future of the AFL.

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