AFL: Opening Round Back, Gather Round Fixtures Announced
The wait is over! The AFL has officially announced the highly anticipated opening round fixtures for the 2024 season, along with the schedule for the inaugural Gather Round – a weekend dedicated to celebrating the game across multiple locations.
A Familiar Start, But With A Twist
The season kicks off with a bang, featuring some enticing match-ups that will no doubt have fans eagerly anticipating the start of the new campaign. Carlton vs. Richmond at the MCG will be a classic rivalry renewed, while Collingwood vs. Essendon at the 'G promises to deliver the usual heated derby atmosphere.
However, a twist to the opening round comes with the introduction of Gather Round, a unique event that will see all 18 teams converge on different locations across the country for a weekend of thrilling AFL action. This unprecedented event promises to be a spectacle unlike anything seen before in the AFL.
Gather Round: A Nationwide Celebration
The Gather Round will be held from Thursday, March 28th to Sunday, March 31st, with matches taking place in Adelaide, Brisbane, Geelong, Perth, and Sydney. This nationwide event is designed to bring the game to a wider audience, offering fans from all over the country the opportunity to witness the highest level of Aussie Rules in their own backyard.
Here are some of the highlights of the Gather Round fixtures:
- Adelaide Crows vs. Fremantle Dockers at Adelaide Oval (Thursday, March 28th)
- Gold Coast Suns vs. Geelong Cats at Metricon Stadium (Friday, March 29th)
- West Coast Eagles vs. Port Adelaide Power at Optus Stadium (Friday, March 29th)
- Sydney Swans vs. Hawthorn Hawks at the SCG (Saturday, March 30th)
- Melbourne Demons vs. GWS Giants at the MCG (Saturday, March 30th)
- Brisbane Lions vs. North Melbourne Kangaroos at the Gabba (Saturday, March 30th)
- Richmond Tigers vs. St Kilda Saints at the MCG (Sunday, March 31st)
- Western Bulldogs vs. Collingwood Magpies at Marvel Stadium (Sunday, March 31st)
- Essendon Bombers vs. Carlton Blues at the MCG (Sunday, March 31st)
A New Era in AFL
The AFL's commitment to innovation and fan engagement is clear with the introduction of the Gather Round. This event is a fantastic opportunity to attract new fans and showcase the sport's unique appeal to a wider audience. It will be a true celebration of the game, and one that is sure to generate immense excitement and anticipation across the country.
The AFL is ready to make its mark with the new season, and the opening round and Gather Round fixtures are just the beginning of what promises to be a thrilling year of footy!