AFL

Western Bulldogs footballer Sam Davidson at home with his family.
His Mum is head paediatrician at Werribee hospital in Bulldogs heartland, his Dad won silver in the 800m at the World Masters games at 42. Also pictured with brother Tom, who won te premier’s prize for maths.

The son of the west who put medicine on hold for an unexpected AFL career

Medical student and PhD candidate Sam Davidson, whose AFL career came late and unexpectedly, comes from an extraordinary family of Bulldogs and high achievers.

by Michael Gleeson

Michael Voss’ men are yet to open their account in 2025, but they put in a much stronger showing against the Hawks.

Analysis

Blues respond to the questions asked of them all week, but how convincing were their answers?

by Michael Gleeson

Footscray fans protest the proposal to merger the club with Fitzroy in 1989.

The Bulldogs saved themselves in 1989. They also saved North, Richmond and the Saints

by Jon Pierik

Updated

Saints wield the axe, ex-Tigers flag star named for new club: AFL expert tips and teams for round two

Michael Voss at the lectern on Wednesday.

AFL Briefing

Lost connections and a robust player review: The Blues will keep it simple against the Hawks

by Andrew Wu and Jon Pierik

Insight & Analysis

The selfless act that tells me which footy team will win the close one

For so many sports – Australian rules in particular – so many things relating to the performance of a player or team are subjective. Right at the top of the list? On-field communication, body language and connection.

Bob Murphy

Former Western Bulldogs captain

Victorian clubs weigh up bold plays on Harley Reid

Victorian clubs are already considering what they may need to give up in draft capital to secure Harley Reid if he attempts to leave the Eagles with one year left on his contract. There’s news around Kysaiah Pickett and Toby Bedford, too.

Marc McGowan and Peter Ryan

Why this young superstar knocked back $18 million and a home loan

He signed with GWS on the eve of the season for $4.5 million over four years, which will take him to the eve of the 2030 season when he becomes a free agent.

Caroline Wilson

Football columnist for The Age

Latest in AFL

AFL 2025

AFL Live: Hawks remain unbeaten after Carlton test; Modest night for Curnow

Hawthorn have gone 3-0 for the first time in 11 years, outlasting an improved but tiring Carlton by 20 points in a gritty contest at the MCG to kick-start AFL round two.

by Scott Spits and Michael Gleeson

Opinion

AFL 2025

Too late to the intersection: Why Jackson Archer had to be banned

The notion that Luke Cleary caused the collision because he was low, or that Jackson Archer deserved a free for below the knees contact, is utter nonsense.