footy

Footy is a colloquial term commonly used in Australia and New Zealand to refer to Australian rules football, a popular and distinctive code of football. The sport is governed by the Australian Football League (AFL) in Australia and the New Zealand Football League (NZFL) in New Zealand, with the AFL being the premier competition. Australian rules football is known for its fast-paced, physically demanding nature, featuring a combination of running, kicking, and tackling.

The game is played between two teams of 18 players each, with the objective of scoring points by kicking the oval-shaped ball through the opponent's goal posts. Goals are worth six points, while behinds (balls kicked through the goal posts but not over the bar) are worth one point. The sport emphasizes teamwork, endurance, and strategic play, with players often covering large distances during a match.

Australian rules football has a rich history dating back to the mid-19th century in Victoria, Australia. The first formal rules were established in 1858, and the sport quickly gained popularity across the country. The AFL was founded in 1897 as the Victorian Football League (VFL) and expanded nationally in 1989, becoming the AFL. The sport is deeply embedded in Australian culture, with major matches drawing large crowds and significant media attention.

The game is characterized by its unique rules, such as the mark (a free kick awarded to a player who catches the ball on the bounce), the behind post (a smaller goal post behind the main goal), and the use of a bouncing ball. Players are allowed to kick, handball, or bat the ball, but running with it is restricted. Tackling is permitted, but players must release the ball immediately after contact.

Footy is also played recreationally and at grassroots levels across Australia, New Zealand, and other countries, including the United Kingdom, Ireland, the United States, and parts of Asia. International competitions, such as the AFL International Cup, help promote the sport globally. The AFL has also expanded its presence overseas, with teams in the United States and a growing fanbase in Europe and Asia.