Written by Pasha Tehrani
Monday 31 March 2025
Sydney is a sporting city with a deep love for footy – but the definition of "footy" depends on who you ask. While the National Rugby League (NRL) has long been the dominant force in the Harbour City, the Australian Football League (AFL) has steadily grown in popularity. Whether you're a local, a newcomer, or just visiting, here’s your ultimate guide to understanding, watching, and experiencing AFL and NRL in Sydney.
What’s the Difference?
- Played on an oval field with 18 players per team.
- A fast-paced, continuous game emphasizing kicking, handballing, and high-flying marks.
- Scoring: Kick the ball through the two middle goalposts for 6 points; outer posts for 1 point.
- More open play, less stop-start action compared to NRL.
- Played on a rectangular field with 13 players per team.
- A physical, tackle-heavy game focused on structured plays and set pieces.
- Scoring: Try (4 points), conversion (2 points), penalty goal (2 points), field goal (1 point).
- More structured play, with short bursts of intense action between tackles.
Sydney’s AFL & NRL Teams
- Sydney Swans – Established in 1982 (relocating from South Melbourne), the Swans are one of the AFL’s most successful teams. They play home games at the iconic Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG).
- Greater Western Sydney Giants (GWS Giants) – Founded in 2010, this team represents Sydney’s western suburbs. They play at Giants Stadium in Olympic Park.
Sydney is home to nine NRL clubs, making it the heart of rugby league in Australia. Some of the key teams include:
- Sydney Roosters – One of the league’s most successful and wealthiest clubs. Based in the Eastern Suburbs.
- South Sydney Rabbitohs – A historic club with a huge fanbase, co-owned by Russell Crowe. Based in Redfern.
- Parramatta Eels – Western Sydney’s powerhouse club with a passionate following.
- Penrith Panthers – The current dominant force, winning multiple recent premierships.
- Other notable teams: Cronulla Sharks, Wests Tigers, Manly Sea Eagles, Canterbury Bulldogs, and St George Illawarra Dragons.
Where to Watch AFL & NRL in Sydney
Live Games
- AFL: Swans games at the SCG offer a lively atmosphere, while Giants matches at Giants Stadium provide a great experience in Sydney’s west.
- NRL: Games take place across multiple venues, including Allianz Stadium (Roosters), Accor Stadium (Rabbitohs, major finals), and suburban grounds like Brookvale Oval (Manly).
Best Pubs & Venues to Watch
- For AFL: The Light Brigade (Woollahra), Camelia Grove Hotel (Alexandria), Royal Oak (Balmain).
- For NRL: Coogee Bay Hotel, The Caxton for big Origin nights, and various suburban sports bars.
Want to Play?
- AFL: Sydney’s community footy scene is growing, with clubs like Sydney University, East Sydney Bulldogs, and Western Magic welcoming players of all levels.
- NRL: Rugby league has a strong grassroots presence, particularly in Western Sydney. Junior clubs like South Sydney Juniors, St Marys, and Balmain Tigers are popular pathways to professional footy.
Which Code Should You Follow?
- Love high-scoring, fast-paced action? → AFL might be your game.
- Prefer physical, strategic play with intense rivalries? → NRL is the way to go.
- Want to be part of Sydney’s traditional sporting culture? → NRL dominates the local scene.
- Keen to experience something growing and modern? → AFL is on the rise in Sydney.
Final Verdict
Sydney is lucky to have a footy culture that embraces both AFL and NRL. Whether you’re cheering in a packed stadium, watching at a local pub, or even having a go yourself, there’s no shortage of opportunities to get involved. So why not experience both and decide for yourself?
Whichever way you lean, Sydney’s sporting scene has something for everyone. Game on! 🏉⚡