ABOUT US

Since its humble beginnings in 1985, American Football South Australia (AFSA) has played a central role in developing and growing gridiron in the state. Originally known as the Gridiron Association of South Australia, the organization officially rebranded in 2024 to reflect the sport’s evolving identity and to better align with national standards. As the governing body for American football in South Australia, AFSA operates under International Federation of American Football (IFAF) rules and works in close collaboration with American Football Australia (AFA), the nationally recognised sporting organisation for the sport.

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AFSA’s competitions are played during the Australian summer, running from November through early March. This seasonal alignment is intentional—it not only allows for better weather conditions but also keeps the South Australian competition in step with both the national AFA calendar and the traditional American football season in the United States. The most recent season followed this format, kicking off in November 2024 and culminating on March 1st, 2025, with both the junior and senior state championships held on the same day at Dry Creek Reserve.

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Over the decades, AFSA has been home to a wide variety of clubs, many of which have evolved or changed names over time. Among the league’s storied past clubs are the The Adelaide Eagles who now compete as the UniSA Eagles; Eastside Razorbacks, who now compete as the Adelaide Uni Hogs; the Brighton Breakers; the Elizabeth Lions; the Northern District Pirates; the Port Adelaide Spartans; The South City Chiefs and the Southern District Oilers, who originally played under the name Longhorns. Each of these teams has helped build the foundation of American Football in South Australia, contributing players, rivalries, and a passion that still resonates today.

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Currently, the league features four active clubs that form the core of the competition: the Adelaide Uni Hogs, Port Adelaide Spartans, South City Chiefs, and the UniSA Eagles. These teams compete week in and week out, bringing intensity, pride, and community spirit to every match day.

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One of the unique features of AFSA’s structure is its commitment to centralised game days. Since the league’s inception, all teams have played in the same location each week, fostering a strong sense of community and creating a vibrant, consistent atmosphere for fans and players alike. This tradition began at Norwood Oval in 1985 and continued at Thebarton Oval starting in 1989. From 1996, the league made its home at the State Hockey Stadium, where it remained for 12 years. In 2009, AFSA returned to Thebarton Oval before entering a period of rotation through several venues, including Richmond Oval, Port Adelaide Reserve, and Ellis Park. In 2023, AFSA settled into its current home at Dry Creek Reserve.

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Looking ahead, AFSA remains committed to strengthening the presence of American football in the state. By staying closely aligned with American Football Australia and maintaining its grassroots focus, the organisation continues to nurture the next generation of players and build a competitive, inclusive, and passionate football community.

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Whether you’ve been following the sport for years or are just discovering it for the first time, American football in South Australia offers something special. With a proud history, a solid foundation, and a bright future, the AFSA is keeping the gridiron spirit alive and well—right here in the heart of South Australia.

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