Aussie Rules Football...now there's a weird game! It's to Victoria what Rugby League is to NSW and as a result Sydney only has one team (although it's about to become 2 with the introduction of Greater Western Sydney Giants next season), the Sydney Swans. The Swans have resided at the SCG since 1982, having previously played as South Melbourne (a fact that is still recognised by the SMFC on the back of their shirts) for 107 years.
Now for anyone born outside of Australia, this game will seem strange and confusing. 5 years in the country, and it still seems strange and confusing. Watching on TV, it can be a bit tedious to watch if you're not totally clued in to what's going on. However, as with most sports, if you're at the stadium watching it live, then it definitely adds to the excitement.
The Swans themselves have been relatively successful over the last few years, having won the competition in 2005 and losing by a single point a year later. They are usually expected to finish within the top-8, therefore qualifying for the finals, so they are a pretty decent team to go and watch if you're fancy checking it out for the first time.
Most of their games are played at the SCG in Moore Park, but some of the bigger games are moved out to Homebush and the bigger capacity ANZ stadium. Either way, you shouldn't have too many problems getting tickets. Price-wise, it's pretty good value, with adult tickets starting at $24 at the SCG and $28.50 at ANZ (2011 prices, so may change for 2012 season).
So if you're around during the winter months and you're curious to see why people get excited about 36 guys chasing a unevenly bouncing ball around a cricket oval, get yourself to a game! read more
