Australian Football - Round 1

[Ricco]

Managed to get my camera down for round 1 of the Australian Football League. For those that are unaquainted, it is easily the best game in the world! Athletes can cover up to 15-20km in a match whilst getting hit in tackles and competing constantly. Some of the best midfielders are 185cm-190cm tall powerhouses that run all day with exquisite skills. Check out www.afl.com.au

Luckily I was in row 2 so close up action shots beckoned.

The teams are the Fremantle Dockers in white (the team that all people should be supporting) vs Collingwood Magpies (evil, hated by everyone except Collingwood supporters). For the record, good triumphed over evil (i.e. the Dockers beat the Pies).

Hayden Ballantyne (Dockers) powers away from Scott Pendlebury


Duffield clears the ball from the pack


Ballantyne snaps a goal of the year contender


Tendai Mzungu breaks clear

[IzzieK]

Now! that is what I call Football. I can understand this one better than the American version of footfall...

[Shadowman]

Nice series.

[rpcrowe]

I attended an Aussie Rules football game when I was in Perth, many, many years ago. Very enjoyable with lots of action. The field is tremendous and I would guess that you would need a gazillion millimeter lens to get individual shots.

[jamn4ex]

very good series !

[Ricco]

Thanks all.

Richard - the stadiums only allow up to 200mm so there is a limit there unless you are a pro. It does limit you to action at one end of the field. I have thought about sneaking in an extender separate to the camera, but that is one for another day.

I take it I can now claim you all as honorary dockers supporters?

[flashback]

Great action shot! I find it so much more interesting and athletic than "American" football.

[dje]

Good stuff Peter, well captured.

Not a fan of either team really but if push came to shove I'd go for the Dockers over the Pies any day.

Go Lions
Dave

[IzzieK]

.....
I take it I can now claim you all as honorary dockers supporters?

Not so fast, buster! What is wrong with the Magpies? Oh. OK...everything but I am not a Dockers' fan either. 'Like Essendon.

[John 2]

Nice series. At least they tolerate your camera. Here, for major events for the most part you have to smuggle something in unless you are "accredited".

[jamn4ex]

Wow those were taken with 200 mm at what looks like 30 or 40 yards. Now I am even more impressed with your results.
uh go Dockers! No pads or helmets I would say that the intensity and fast action of the sport creates quite a challenge to nail these shots like you have.