WHAT IS AUSSIE RULES?
IT'S AUSTRALIAN RULES FOOTBALL
Australian Rules Football (AFL or “footy”) is a fast, 360‑degree field sport that combines the running of soccer, the physicality of rugby, and the aerial marking of basketball. It’s played on a large oval field with 18 players a side, and emphasizes endurance, skills, and teamwork.
Australian Rules Football is a high‑energy, continuous game where players can run, kick, handball, and leap for contested marks anywhere on the field. The aim is to move the ball quickly into the forward line and score by kicking it through the tall goal posts. Unlike some other codes, there’s no offside, so play can flow in every direction and everyone is involved. That makes footy incredibly fun to play and exciting to learn, even as a complete beginner.
The sport has deep roots in Australia, but it’s growing rapidly in the United States. Here in Denver, the Bulldogs are part of the national Australian Rules league structure, giving players a chance to train locally and compete at regional and national tournaments.
Whether you’ve played other sports your whole life or never laced up boots before, there’s a place for you with the Denver Bulldogs.
NO EXPERIENCE NEEDED – WE TEACH YOU FOOTY
Men’s, Women’s, and Coed Players Welcome
Most of our players started with zero Australian Rules Football experience. Many came from sports like soccer, rugby, basketball, American football, lacrosse, or running—and some had never played a team sport at all. We break the game down into simple steps, focusing on:
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How to kick and handball safely and accurately
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How to tackle and be tackled with proper technique
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How to position yourself and read the play
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How to build fitness and confidence at your own pace
Coaches and experienced players will work with you in small groups, so you can learn the fundamentals and get comfortable before full‑speed game situations.
What to Expect at Your First Training
Your first session is all about getting comfortable and having fun. A typical training for new players includes:
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Warm‑up, new player introductions and simple movement drills
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Basic kicking and handball drills with coaching cues
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Small‑sided games to learn the rules while you play
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Optional conditioning and cool‑down
We’ll explain the rules as you go, answer questions, and make sure you’re paired with players at a similar level. You can take breaks as needed and progress at a pace that feels right for you. Bring water - the altitude here is real.
HOW TO GET STARTED
Why Play Footy with the Denver Bulldogs?
Players join the Bulldogs for different reasons, but they stay for the same ones:
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A tight‑knit club that welcomes newcomers
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A chance to compete in organized games and tournaments
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A fun way to get fit while learning a unique sport
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A social calendar with post‑game gatherings and club events
Whether your goal is to make a national‑level side, get back into sport after time away, or just find a new group of friends, Australian Rules Football offers something you won’t find in any other game.
How to Get Started
Ready to try Australian Rules Football in Denver?
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Check our Calendar page for the next training session
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Visit our New Players page for what to bring and what to expect
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Use the Contact form to get in contact with the club and our WhatsApp community. You can let us know you’re coming, or just show up and introduce yourself to a coach
Bring athletic clothes, boots or running shoes, and some water. We’ll supply the footies, the drills, and the welcoming Bulldogs crew.
“My teammates are some of my best friends. We aren’t all ridiculously amazing athletes, we don’t all train every single day; we are just normal, everyday people who happen to enjoy the game. We also are lucky enough to be part of one of the most tight-knit clubs in the league and have the support of all of the men on the team, who watch our games, cheer for us, and encourage us to play our hardest.”
-Kylie Haun