It’s Wharfie Time

The Australian Football League is arguably one of the strangest and most bewildering sporting leagues to both follow and partake in, but there is no denying that it is electrifyingly thrilling and all consuming.

One of the most exhilarating moments for a fan, however, is when you pick a team and declare yourself ride or die, with full support and unwavering faith.

So, I am here to tell you, with slight conviction and pure intention, that the one and only team you need to support for the remainder of this season, and likely into the finals (fingers crossed) is the Fremantle Dockers. 

The Dockers, Purple Reign, Walyalup, The Best out West and the true Underdogs.

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I must start by saying, who doesn’t love an Underdog. It’s an archetype as old as time, characterised by a sense of justice, fairness, and the anticipation of unexpected excitement.

The Dockers are the epitome of the Underdog, with one of the youngest playing sides, fourth most recent establishment, and the Victorian bias in full force. They are also building on the culmination of 3 decades of hope, hardship and pure belief. A spirit of fairness is in the very fibres of this club.

There is truly nothing more riveting than watching the Dockers play their hearts out, with their bodies on the line and firm courage as they clinch unpredicted wins, such as the recent one-point win over the top of the ladder team Collingwood, at their home ground in Melbourne. A real pulse raiser.

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One of the reasons I most admire this club however, is due to their commitment and pride in representing Australia’s First Nations players, who are truly the heart and soul of the game. The Dockers are a beacon of inclusivity around the club as well as amongst supporters, with one of the most passionate fan bases that you can communicate with on digital spaces such as reddit communities, as well as embrace in your local pub after a heart stopping win.

The Dockers also boast the youngest playing side with an average age of 24.6 years. They are a young, capable and upcoming team that is underpinned and bolstered by veteran players more deserving than anyone of a premiership. That just makes things all the more exciting doesn’t it?!

And now, the greatest reason of all to support this beloved team – they are yet to win a premiership…

“What’s the one ship that has never docked in Freo… the Premiership HAHAHAH” – Salty Eagles Fan John

So here I am, offering you a purple army bandwagon pass. Take it, you will not regret it.