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I grew to love the physicality of it, using my power and strength in ways I never thought I could, to bust through tackles, drive through ground balls and launch for marks.
We all know some of the physical benefits of playing a sport – a body-wide workout being one of them. However, the benefits of playing a team sport like AFL (Australian Football League) extend far beyond the physical.
Anyone who has ever loved playing a team sport knows it's about more than just the game – it's how it makes you feel. The real value lies in the community and the unspoken bond between players (and their families) who share a love for the game. You win together and lose together, and you can't beat that.
To find out why you should give AFL a try, we sat down with our very own rebel ambassador, Libby Birch, who is not only a dynamic force in the AFLW with 2x premierships and 2x All-Australian selections to her name but is also a qualified physiotherapist and AFL sports commentator. Let's go!
1. To Be Part of a Team Environment
Libby says she might be biased but believes footy offers one of the most exceptional team environments you can experience – and she's not wrong.
From the moment she stepped onto the field – making the switch from netball to football in 2016 – she recalls being greeted with open arms by new teams ready to guide her through the fundamentals of AFL.
And although she felt like she was starting from scratch, she found the support wasn't just about teaching her the game, it was about making her feel like a valued part of the team.
"I was blown away by the inclusive and welcoming atmosphere at my new local club," says Libby.
"The transition was more than just a change in sports; it was an entry into a community where being yourself was not just accepted but celebrated."
Joining the footy club became more than a sporting commitment as it quickly turned into her happy place, she says.
"For the first time in my life, I felt a deep sense of belonging and community."
"The club provided a space where I could contribute to something greater, and form connections and long-lasting friendships that extended far beyond the field," she says.
2. It Offers You New Challenges
AFL is a sport like no other. It constantly pushes you to develop and refine new skills, ensuring there's always something new to focus on and improve.
It's also a great sport to challenge and test yourself. Whether it's refining your kicking technique, mastering marking skills, or honing your positional play, the sport keeps you on your toes, she says.
Before she joined the AFL scene, Libby says she had never kicked a football and had little to no experience with the sport.
"At 18, I faced a steep learning curve, with each practice revealing new aspects of the game I needed to master – but it was so much fun," she says.
"Although I was stepping out of my comfort zone at times, it was exciting to be trying something new and completely different."
Libby recalls one of the first adjustments she had to make was understanding the physical nature of AFL. "Unlike netball, where contact is minimal and controlled, footy is a contact sport where tackles are part of the game," she says.
"I grew to love the physicality of it, using my power and strength in ways I never thought I could, to bust through tackles, drive through ground balls and launch for marks."
Libby says that learning to kick the ball was another significant challenge.
"For someone who had never kicked a football before, with little to no hand-to-foot coordination, perfecting my technique was no small feat," she says.
"It required hours of practice and patience but the difficulty of learning the skill was matched with immense excitement and satisfaction when I finally got the basics down pat."
3. You Can Use Transferable Skills
If you've played a different sport and looking to step into the world of AFL, Libby says you might be surprised at how well your previous sporting experience translates. Played netball? Your marking skills will be a great asset. How about football? Your kicking technique and coordination will be invaluable, she says.
"Even touch football players will find their fitness and ball-handling skills useful," says Libby.
"The beauty of AFL is that it welcomes a range of skills from various sports, making it easier for newcomers to adapt and excel."
4. It's Great for Fitness
AFL is an excellent way to boost your fitness in a competitive and enjoyable environment. The running, jumping, and rapid direction changes provide a great workout and can benefit your cardiovascular health too. Plus, it makes fitness exciting, and a refreshing alternative to the monotony of a traditional gym routine.
Libby says that if, like her, you find traditional running a bit mundane but thrive on the excitement of competition, you'll end up running around the field for hours, driven by a shared goal and the thrill of the game.
"Ultimately, what I love about AFL is its ability to accommodate a wide range of body types and physical strengths across different positions on the field," she says.
"Whether you're aiming to boost your fitness, spending just five minutes in the midfield will give you a solid cardiovascular workout."
If speed is your focus, Libby suggests playing as a half-forward or in the back pocket will push you to new limits.
"And if you're a strong, physical player, you might find your niche in the forward line or deep in the backline – AFL is a full body workout," she says.
5. You Will Feel Part of a Community
What's one of the best parts of joining a football club? It's not just being part of a team but being part of a wider community. As Libby explains, it's the sense of togetherness that makes the club feel like a second home for many.
"The beauty of football is that there are countless ways to be involved, each contributing to the club's success and camaraderie," says Libby.
"Whether you have a passion for organising, strategising, or supporting from behind the scenes or sideline, there's a role for you."
Libby says from the administrator, (who plays a crucial part in keeping the club running smoothly) to the umpire who's essential for ensuring fair play, to those who prefer a more hands-on role, like being a water runner, trainer or coach, these are the ones who support, teach and guide the team.
"Footy truly embraces everyone, offering a place for all to contribute and feel valued, and it's worth giving it a try."
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