A History of Grand Finals in the AFL and AFLW: A Celebration of Athletic Triumph and Indomitable Spirit

There are few sporting spectacles in the world that match the intensity, passion, and historical richness of the AFL Grand Final. In its over a century long history, the AFL has gifted us a myriad of heart-stopping moments, awe-inspiring performances and stories of underdog triumphs that have transcended the boundary lines of the footy oval to enter into the realm of timeless folklore.

A game of AFL is not just a display of athletic prowess; it's an intricate dance of strategy, a test of mental strength, a showcase of team camaraderie, and at its core, a celebration of Australian culture. Nowhere are these elements more profoundly intertwined and visibly manifest than in the Grand Final, the annual culmination of the Australian Football League season.

Among the countless thrilling games that have etched their names into the annals of AFL history, certain Grand Finals stand out for their iconic moments, game-changing performances, and the profound influence they have had on the landscape of Australian Rules Football. Let us embark on a journey through time and revisit some of these legendary Grand Finals.

For a deeper dive into the greatest AFL Grand Finals, make sure to book a Star from our extensive roster of AFL greats. From the high-flying marks of Brendan Fevola to the gritty determination of Abbey Holmes, and the wizardry of Gary Ablett Jnr., our stars have been integral parts of these monumental clashes, each leaving their indelible mark on the AFL's biggest stage.*

The 2009 Grand Final showcased the exceptional talents of Geelong's Gary Ablett Jnr., one of the greatest players in modern AFL history. The game itself was a nerve-wracking encounter, with Geelong narrowly defeating St Kilda by 12 points in a thrilling match that kept fans on edge until the final siren.

Ablett Jr.'s contribution to the match was nothing short of spectacular. With his skillful ball handling, his powerful running through the midfield, and his precision in front of the goal, he became the backbone of Geelong's victory. Ablett Jr. amassed a total of 25 disposals, and his goal in the final quarter was the clincher that swung the momentum in favour of Geelong.

The game was a testament to Ablett Jr.'s unyielding determination and extraordinary skills, and his performance under pressure cemented his reputation as one of the AFL's finest players. The 2009 Grand Final served as the pinnacle of Ablett Jr.'s decorated career, and his virtuosic performance on that day continues to inspire the next generation of AFL stars.

While not a grand final, this clash was a highlight of Brendan Fevola's illustrious career. Fevola was a scoring machine, renowned for his ability to produce magic when his team needed it most. He bagged eight goals in this match, almost single-handedly securing victory for Carlton. Fevola's performances were a reminder that individual brilliance could turn the tide in any game.

Before the establishment of the AFLW, the AFL Women's Exhibition Matches were the closest thing women had to a Grand Final. In the 2014 edition, Abbey Holmes of the Western Bulldogs became the first woman to kick 100 goals in a season. Holmes was a trailblazer for women in the sport, proving that they could play with just as much skill and passion as their male counterparts. Her landmark achievement paved the way for the establishment of the AFLW, changing the face of Australian Rules Football.

Few AFL Grand Finals have personified the true spirit of the underdog quite like the 2016 decider. The Bulldogs, having finished seventh on the ladder, had not tasted Premiership glory for over six decades. Against all odds, they overcame their more fancied rivals, the Sydney Swans, in an inspiring display of grit, teamwork and determination. The most heartwarming moment came when coach Luke Beveridge gave his Jock McHale Medal to injured captain Bob Murphy, a testament to the Bulldogs' team spirit.

Sometimes a game transcends the sport itself to become a cultural phenomenon. The 2005 Grand Final was one such match. In a nerve-wracking showdown, the Sydney Swans emerged victorious by a razor-thin margin of four points, breaking a 72-year Premiership drought. This Grand Final is celebrated not just for the Swans' historic win but for the incredible see-saw battle that kept fans on the edge of their seats till the final siren.

In a game often regarded as one of the best Grand Finals ever, the West Coast Eagles overcame an early deficit to defeat Collingwood in a thrilling encounter. The Eagles' courage under pressure, and Dom Sheed's match-winning goal in the dying minutes of the game, underlined the epic nature of the AFL Grand Final.

Each of these Grand Finals has contributed to the rich tapestry of the AFL's history, shaping the game as we know it today. They serve as a vivid reminder that in AFL, anything is possible.

And remember, the stars of these incredible games are available to book for your next event. From an engaging Q&A session, coaching a footy clinic, or even making an appearance at your club's Grand Final event, our AFL legends are just a click away. Experience first-hand the excitement of the AFL Grand Final and the incredible stories from those who lived these iconic moments. Book a Star now, and make your event a Grand Final to remember!