AFL Teams Change for New Season

AFL teams are getting ready for the new season. Many new players have joined teams. Some players are playing in new spots. Injuries are also a problem for some players.
By Newsroom | Sports, Australian Rules Football |

Pre-season match simulations have revealed notable shifts in team compositions and player roles across the Australian Football League (AFL). As clubs finalize their rosters for the opening round, a multitude of new recruits are donning their team colors, while established players are adapting to new positions. The results of these practice matches offer a glimpse into team strategies and individual player performances, setting the stage for the upcoming 2026 AFL season.

New Faces and Emerging Talent in Practice Matches

The pre-season period has seen numerous players make their debut for new clubs. These transfers and draft picks are integrating into their teams, with some already staking their claim for Round 1 selection. For example, James Peatling and Isaac Cumming, formerly of GWS, are reportedly close to securing spots in their new teams. Alex Neal-Bullen has shown promising form, contributing with possessions and assists, while draftee Sid Draper has impressed with his contributions in limited game time. These early performances suggest that new talent will play a significant role in the upcoming season.

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Player Movements and Role Adjustments

The off-season has been a period of significant player movement, with many athletes switching clubs. These transitions often involve a change in team strategy and player roles. Callum Ah Chee, for instance, has moved to a new club and is now wearing different colors. Similarly, other players are being deployed in new positions, a tactical adjustment often seen as teams prepare for the competitive demands of the season. The full impact of these role changes and recruit integrations will become clearer as the official season commences.

Round 1 bolters, recruits in new colours and role changes: 18-club state of play for AFL match sims - 1

Injury Concerns and Player Availability

As the pre-season progresses, injury reports are beginning to emerge, affecting player availability for Round 1. Several key players are listed as "in doubt" or "won't play" due to ailments. Max King is dealing with a calf and knee issue, while Liam Henry is experiencing a hamstring problem. Other clubs are also reporting player concerns, including Eric Hipwood (knee), Sam Draper (foot), and Jack Payne (knee). These absences will undoubtedly influence team selections and the tactical approaches of affected clubs in their opening fixtures.

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Match Simulation Schedule and Broadcast Details

The AFL has released a detailed schedule for the pre-season match simulations, offering fans a chance to preview the upcoming season. These practice matches are being broadcast live on Fox Footy (Channel 504). For instance, one simulation is scheduled for Monday, February 16, at 1:45 PM AEDT, featuring a match at the Kennedy Community Centre. Another is set for Thursday, February 19, at 7:45 PM AEDT, to be played at People First Stadium. The specific formats of these simulations vary, with some featuring four 30-minute quarters with no time added, while others have shorter quarters with time-on.

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Key Matches and Team Preparations

The pre-season fixtures provide a critical opportunity for teams to fine-tune their strategies and assess their playing lists. Several matches have been scheduled for late February, including games involving Hawthorn, Gold Coast, Collingwood, and Carlton. For example, one team is set to play Hawthorn on February 16, followed by a match against Gold Coast on February 19. These encounters serve as a valuable testing ground before the official start of the home and away season, which is slated to begin in early March.

Sources

  • Article 1: foxsports.com.au - "Round 1 bolters, recruits in new colours and role changes: 18-club state of play for AFL match sims"

  • Article 2: zerohanger.com - "Surprise debut chances emerge, star recruits shine: Each new AFL recruit's Round 1 prospects after pre-season showing"

  • Article 3: bobapalooza.com.ph - "AFL 2026 pre-season: state of play, match simulations full guide and how to watch, TV and stream details, practice match fixture, role changes and players to watch"

  • Article 4: afl.com.au - "New year, new look: Off-season recruits in their new club colours"

  • Article 5: tahrir2day.com - "Round 1 bolters, gun replacements and new roles: Club-by-club AFL match sim guide – Fox Sports – Latest News"

  • Article 6: foxsports.com.au - "Rd 1 bolters, crucial role tweaks and injury setbacks: Mega AFL pre-season state of play"

  • Article 7: zerohanger.com - "How different each Round 1 AFL side looks compared to last year"

  • Article 8: aflratings.com.au - "Team Changes: Round 18 - AFLRATINGS"

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is happening in the AFL pre-season?
Teams are changing players and trying new ways to play before the real games start.
Q: Are there new players in the AFL?
Yes, many new players have joined different teams after being picked or moving from other clubs.
Q: Are any players hurt?
Yes, some important players have injuries like knee or foot problems and might miss the first game.
Q: How can I watch the practice games?
You can watch the practice games live on Fox Footy. Some games are also shown online.