All you really need to know about Melbourne before you move here

AFL, or Australian Rules Football, is a complex sport with several rules and regulations. The objective of the game is to score more points than the opposing team by kicking the ball through the two central goalposts, which are situated at either end of the field.

A goal is worth six points, while a behind (scoring the ball between the outer and central goalpost) is worth one point.

Players and Team Formation:

Each team consists of 18 players. The players are divided into six forwards, midfielders, and defenders. The captain of each team is responsible for leading and directing the team throughout the game.

The Ball:

The ball used in AFL is oval-shaped and made of leather. It must be between 68-70 centimetres long and weigh 450-500 grams.

The Field:

The AFL field is oval-shaped and measures 135-185 meters in length and 110-155 meters in width. The playing surface is grass, and the field is marked with various lines and circles to indicate different areas and boundaries.

The Start of the Game:

The game begins with a centre bounce, where the umpire (yes, umpire) bounces the ball in the centre of the field. The two teams then compete to gain possession of the ball.

Ball Possession:

Players can gain possession of the ball by catching it, picking it up off the ground, or tapping it to a teammate. They can then dispose of the ball by kicking it or handballing it (punching it with a closed fist).

Kicking:

Players must do so within the game's rules when they kick the ball. They cannot kick the ball out of bounds on the full (without it touching the ground), and they must kick the ball in a forward direction. A player can also take a mark (catch the ball) if they catch it after another player has kicked it and has travelled more than 15 meters.

Handballing:

Handballing is a technique where a player punches the ball with a closed fist to pass it to a teammate. The ball must be released from the player's hand immediately after it is touched, and the handball cannot be used to score a goal.

Bouncing:

When a player runs with the ball, they must bounce it every 15 meters or less. If they fail to bounce the ball, they will be penalized and the other team will be awarded a free kick.

Tackling:

Players can tackle their opponents to prevent them from gaining possession of the ball. However, they must tackle within the game's rules, such as not tackling high or from behind. If a player is tackled and does not dispose of the ball correctly, they will be penalized.

Scoring:

A goal is scored when the ball is kicked through the two central goalposts. A behind is scored when the ball passes between one of the outer goalposts and the central goalpost. If the ball hits the goalpost or goes through it without touching anything, it is also considered a behind.

Fouls and Penalties:

There are various fouls and penalties in AFL, including holding the ball, tripping, and rough conduct. If a player commits a foul, the other team will be awarded a free kick or a 50-meter penalty, depending on the severity of the foul.

Time:

AFL games are played in four quarters of 20 minutes each, with a break at half-time. If the game ends in a tie, extra time is played.