The 2023 Gather Round is set to attract significant attention in South Australia as all 18 AFL clubs and thousands of fans gather for the event. Over four days, nine matches will be held at venues including Adelaide Oval, Barossa Park, and Norwood Oval, starting with the Adelaide Crows facing the Carlton Blues. The Fremantle Dockers, having recently secured a notable victory, will play against Collingwood at Adelaide Oval, a match requested by South Australian Premier Peter Malinauskas for its prime timeslot. Meanwhile, the West Coast Eagles will don their nostalgic “ochre” jumpers against Geelong at Norwood Oval. As this year’s Gather Round coincides with the expiration of a three-year agreement between the AFL and the South Australian government, discussions are ongoing about its future, with both parties eager to secure a new deal for the event.
Why It Matters
The Gather Round is significant as it showcases the growing popularity of Australian Rules football and its impact on local economies and tourism. Since its inception in 2021, the event has garnered a positive response from fans and stakeholders, emphasizing the importance of regional engagement in sports. The negotiations surrounding its future will determine the long-term viability of this fixture in the AFL calendar, reflecting the AFL’s strategic priorities and the South Australian government’s commitment to promoting local events. The event’s success could influence similar initiatives in other states, highlighting the potential for sports to drive community and economic benefits.
Want More Context? 🔎
