Discover the Best Australian Football Leagues and Teams to Follow in 2023
As I sit down to map out my Australian football viewing schedule for 2023, I can't help but reflect on what makes certain leagues and teams worth following. Having tracked Australian rules football for over a decade, I've developed a keen sense for identifying which competitions deliver the most thrilling action and which teams possess that special spark. This year, my attention is firmly focused on the Australian Football League as the premier competition, though I must confess I've developed a particular soft spot for the emerging talent in state-level leagues like the VFL and SANFL.
The AFL remains the undeniable crown jewel of Australian football with its 18 professional teams generating approximately $944 million in annual revenue. What fascinates me most about this league isn't just the scale, but how certain teams embody the spirit of perseverance. Watching teams like West Coast Eagles rebuild their roster reminds me of that powerful quote from Philippine basketball where players emphasized staying present in the moment rather than worrying about future outcomes. This mindset resonates deeply with me when I observe teams like the Gold Coast Suns, who've consistently struggled but show glimmers of brilliant potential. Their journey mirrors that philosophy of giving their best in each game without getting distracted by external pressures or past performances.
While the AFL commands most attention, I've found myself increasingly drawn to the authentic community spirit of state leagues. The South Australian National Football League, established way back in 1877, maintains a purity of football that sometimes gets lost in the commercialized premier competition. Last season, I attended three SANFL finals matches and was blown away by the electric atmosphere at Adelaide Oval despite the smaller crowds of around 25,000 spectators. There's something magical about watching teams like Norwood and Sturt play with that raw determination that comes from representing local communities rather than corporate interests.
My personal favorite to watch this season has to be the Melbourne-based teams in the AFL, particularly the Western Bulldogs. Their playing style represents what I love most about Australian football - fast transitions, high marks, and that never-say-die attitude. Having followed them since their miraculous 2016 premiership, I've noticed how they consistently punch above their weight despite having one of the competition's smaller budgets. Their approach reminds me of that commitment to "giving your best for the team" regardless of circumstances, a quality that makes any team worth supporting in my book.
The beauty of Australian football lies in its diversity of competitions and the distinct character each team develops. While I'll always advocate for supporting your local club, I must admit I've developed a soft spot for interstate teams that demonstrate particular grit. Fremantle's performance last season, winning 15 of their 22 matches, showcased exactly the kind of determined football that keeps me coming back season after season. Their ability to bounce back from disappointing losses exemplifies that focus on the present moment rather than dwelling on what might have been.
As we move deeper into the 2023 season, I'm convinced the most rewarding approach for any new follower is to embrace both the elite level and the grassroots competitions. The connection between community leagues and professional teams creates a football ecosystem unlike any other sport I've followed. Whether you're drawn to the powerhouse clubs or the underdogs, what matters most is finding teams that play with heart and commitment to each moment on field. That's where the true magic of Australian football reveals itself, in those split-second decisions and relentless efforts that define this incredible sport.