A Beginner's Guide to AFL for UniLodge Melbourne Residents

Whether you've just arrived in Melbourne, Australia, or you’ve been here for a while, one thing you'll quickly realise is how much Aussies love their sport. And there's one sport, in particular, that captures hearts like no other—Australian Rules Football, or AFL, as locals call it. If you're unsure what all the hype is about, don’t worry! We’ve got you covered with this beginner’s guide to AFL, tailored just for you.

Take a seat and get ready to tackle footy basics before round 1 kicks off in Melbourne – 13 March 2025!

What Exactly Is AFL?

Australian Rules Football (AFL) is a high-energy, fast-paced sport filled with action, athleticism, and plenty of excitement. Played on a massive oval field with two teams of 18 players, the goal is simple but thrilling—score points by kicking the ball through tall goalposts.

AFL is deeply ingrained in Australian culture, especially here in Melbourne, where it originated. The AFL Grand Final is the sporting event of the year, drawing over 100,000 fans to the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). But even regular games around the city are electric, with die-hard fans creating an atmosphere you’ll want to experience firsthand.

How Does AFL Work?

Here’s a quick rundown of AFL rules to help you get started:

• Scoring:
  • Kick the ball through the two tall goalposts = 6 points (a goal).
  • Kick the ball between a tall goalpost  and the smaller post, or hit the post itself = 1 point (this is called a Behind).
• Moving the Ball:
  • Players can kick it, handball (punch) it, or run with it (bouncing it every 15 meters).
• Marking:
  • If a player catches a kick that travels at least 15 meters, it’s called a “Mark.” This allows them to take an unopposed kick.
• Tackling:
  • Players can tackle their opponents to try to gain possession of the ball. But be warned, AFL tackling can be brutal!

Still sound confusing? Don’t worry—once you watch a game, the fast-flowing nature of AFL will make everything much easier to understand. You can also watch this video for more information. 

Why AFL Is More Than Just a Sport

AFL is much more than just a game—it’s part of the cultural fabric of Australia. Here’s why:

• Electrifying Live Matches: Nothing compares to the roar of the crowd at a live AFL game. The high-flying marks, incredible kicks, and last-minute goals are guaranteed to get your adrenaline pumping.
• Community Spirit: AFL brings people together. Game day means friends, families, and strangers unite to cheer for their team in a sea of team colours and chants.
• Melbourne’s Passion for Footy: With 9 out of the league’s 18 teams based in Melbourne, this city is truly the heart of AFL. It’s a city ritual here—a way of life for many locals!

Key 2025 Games You Can’t Miss

If you’re staying at UniLodge in Melbourne, you’re in the perfect spot to catch the action live! Here are a few key games to mark in your calendar when the season kicks off:

• Thursday, March 13th : Richmond vs Carlton @ 6:30pm – MCG, Melbourne (Wurundjeri Country) 
• Friday, March 14th: Hawthorn vs Essendon @ 6:40pm – MCG, Melbourne (Wurundjeri Country)
• Saturday, March 15th:
  • Western Bulldogs vs North Melbourne @ 6:35pm– Marvel Stadium, Melbourne (Wurundjeri Country) 
  • Collingwood vs Port Adelaide @ 6:35pm – MCG, Melbourne (Wurundjeri Country)  
• Sunday, March 16th: Melbourne vs GWS Giants @ 2:20pm – MCG, Melbourne (Wurundjeri Country)  

Grab your friends from UniLodge and experience the thrill of a live match at the iconic MCG or Marvel Stadium—it’s truly unforgettable! (See the full season schedule for Melbourne games here)

How to Get Into Footy Like a Pro

Want to surprise your Aussie friends with your newfound footy knowledge? Here’s how to level up:

1. Watch a Game Live: The MCG is just a short tram or train ride away from UniLodge. Don’t miss your chance to see an AFL game under the bright lights of this historic stadium.
2. Choose a Team: With 10 Victorian-based teams, there’s a lot to choose from. Will you go for Richmond's powerhouse status? Essendon’s history? Or perhaps the underdog Western Bulldogs? Pick a team and start cheering!
3. Learn the Footy Lingo: Understanding Aussie slang will make you feel like a local. Here are a few must-know terms:
   1. Specky – A spectacular mark or catch.
   2. Torp – A long, powerful kick using a spinning motion.
   3. Barrack – To cheer for your team.
4. Join the UniLodge Community: Many UniLodge residents are also eager to learn about AFL, so why not catch a game together? Bond over your team's ups and downs, swap tips, and celebrate wins with your new mates.

Melbourne’s AFL Culture – Experience It for Yourself

The fuse of high-energy sportsmanship, passionate fans, and Melbourne’s love for AFL creates a vibe that no student should miss. Beyond enjoying a game, you’ll be immersing yourself in a massive part of Aussie culture, which will make your time in Melbourne even more special.

Oh, and don’t forget—game day snacks like meat pies and hot chips are essential for the full footy experience!

See you at the game! 

Living at UniLodge gives you direct access to Melbourne’s footy fever, so why not take advantage of it? Whether you’re a future die-hard fan or just want to cheer along for fun, attending an AFL game is an experience you won’t forget. 

Bookmark your favourite team’s schedule, rally your UniLodge buddies, and grab a ticket to the action. Who knows, by the end of the season, you might just become a full-fledged footy fanatic!

Heading to a match with your mates? Don’t forget to tag us on socials @unilodgeaus.