The traditional version of the game is by far the most popular in Australia. Played on large cricket sized fields, with 18 players per team, it is played week in, week out by leagues all over the country, including the AFL.
AFI recognises, however, that many other countries do not have ready access to such large fields, and that other versions of the sport must be developed if Australian Football is to become a truly international sport.
Footy 9s has been designed to allow Aussie Rules to be played on smaller playing fields, without losing any of the fun or excitement associated with the traditional game. As the majority of countries only have access to smaller fields such as soccer or rugby, it is the best way to enable people to play the game.