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Gran’s not happy about the AFL killing the centre bounce. She says it stood for something grander

This week Grandma started telling us about the time before the footy was on TV, when “the bounce” was nothing other than a canny vernacular metaphor for the randomness of life.

  • Gregory Day

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Brad Scott and Zach Merrett in May.

How Zach Merrett’s escape plan blew up Essendon’s fragile rebuild

The Bombers have long worshipped at the shrine of the individual, so it is fitting that a controversial exit strategy by its driven but individualistic captain has piled pressure on David Barham’s board.

  • Caroline Wilson
Robert Walls was one of the football’s most respected figures.

The pale, raw-boned boy who became an AFL legend

Uncompromising as a player, coach and commentator, Robert Walls was a respected and influential figure in Australian football for more than 50 years.

  • Andrew Stafford
Chris Fagan helped an all-girls debating team win their final.

‘Don’t fear them’: How Chris Fagan inspired an all-girls debating team to a surprise victory

The Brisbane Lions’ premiership-winning coach took time out from his holidays to share six steps to success with four year 10 students.

  • Danny Russell
AFL boss Andrew Dillon poses for a photo with Mitch Lewis of the Hawks, Will Hayward of the Swans, Jesse Hogan of the Giants and Mason Cox of the Magpies during the 2025 AFL opening round launch in Sydney

‘So much opportunity here’: AFL boss impressed by NRL’s Vegas gamble, but focus on home turf

Speaking ahead of opening round, AFL chief executive Andrew Dillon wants his game to grow further in Australia rather than looking overseas.

  • Jonathan Drennan and Emily Kaine
Finn Callaghan of the Giants chases the ball during the AFL practice match between Sydney Swans and Greater Western Sydney Giants.

This GWS Giants player knocked back the biggest contract offer in AFL history

Finn Callaghan has unfinished business with the Giants - namely winning an AFL grand final.

  • Jonathan Drennan
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Brayden Maynard is set to re-sign at Collingwood

‘Good spot at the moment’: Maynard set to re-sign as part of new-look Pies backline

Brayden Maynard is battling a foot injury but declared himself fit for the first game as he discussed his contract and where he fits in Collingwood’s stacked backline.

  • Michael Gleeson
Christian Petracca, Patrick Cripps and Ben McKay are among the top earners in the AFL.

Who wants to be a millionaire? AFL’s top earners reach record numbers

The number of AFL players earning at least $1 million has reached a high, but the band with the highest number of players is pocketing far less.

  • Jon Pierik
Carlton Football Club president-elect Rob Priestley.

‘Contend every year’: New president outlines ambition for Blues

After being elected to replace Luke Sayers as Carlton president, Rob Priestley stated his ambition for the club to be vying for the premiership every year.

  • Jake Niall
Footy fans cheer on their teams in 2024.

Is your membership good value? We count the cost of joining an AFL club in 2025

AFL club memberships have never been more varied. They no longer just get you through the turnstiles.

  • Roy Ward