A south east London Australian Rules Football (AFL) team are hosting a watch party for this weekend’s AFL Grand Final.
The South East London Giants are one of eight teams in the AFL London league, one of the largest outside of Australia and has both a men’s and women’s team.
Both Peckham Rye based teams have experienced recent success: the men won the 2024 AFL London social division championship over the Wandsworth Demons in July.
Club treasurer Ginge said: “It’s a huge moment for the club. It meant everything to the guys, it was actually incredible.”
Photo attributed to South East London Giants
The women’s team also participated in the finals for the third time, coming up short against the London Swans.
Moreover, six members of the women’s team, including Freya Hibberd, represented Great Britain at the AFL Transatlantic Cup in Canada in August.
Hibberd said: “It was my fifth international event and my second GB tournament.
“It’s always a bit surreal to represent your country at an international competition and this time was no different.”
The team supported the six from afar, organising fundraisers and watch parties at the local pub to support them.
The club prides itself on being a welcoming and friendly environment for all.
The team is about half Australian and half non-Australian, which is unique for the London-based clubs.
Ginge, who moved to London from Australia, said: “It’s a bit of a community, a sort of London-based family to have when you don’t have family here.
“It’s just an amazing way to find a community in London.”
Hibberd, who is British, added: “My favourite thing about the team is the people! Everyone is so incredibly welcoming, kind and fun.
“If you’re new to London or just looking for some new mates, you’ll definitely find your people at the club!
“There’s such a range of ages and backgrounds, everybody is welcome.”
The team is hosting a watch party for the AFL final on Saturday morning at The Moretown Belle, which will see top-seeded Sydney Swans take on fifth-ranked Brisbane Lions.
Hibberd said: “The finals are always great fun because they’re silly early in the morning so the vibe is great and everyone really gets into it.”
Ginge added: “Even if you don’t know anything about the sport, it’s a really fun day.”
The AFL final will occur on Saturday 28 September at 5:30am UK time (2:30pm local). You can watch the final on Watch AFL.
You can follow the South East London Giants on Instagram.
Photos attributed to Tomas Sentpetery and South East London Giants
Join the discussion