Victoria's football history

Victoria's football history is rich, dating back to the late 19th century when the sport first gained popularity. The state’s top league, the Victorian Football League (VFL), was established in 1896 and became a premier Australian Rules Football competition. Victorian teams, such as Collingwood, Essendon, and Carlton, have historically dominated national championships. The VFL later evolved into the Australian Football League (AFL) in 1990, expanding nationally. Victoria remains a central hub for Australian Rules Football, producing top talent and hosting major events like the AFL Grand Final. The sport's deep roots in Victorian culture continue to influence the national landscape.