The 2019 AFL season has presented a number of big new stories that have shaken the game to its core.
In a rough order, these 10 stories are up there as the biggest so far this season. Can you think of any others?
4. The AFL versus the fans
From the racist slurs in the stands directed at players to the brawls amongst fans, the AFL saw fit to intervene.
The AFL saw a beef-up in security as a necessary means to help remove any of these negative acts that threaten our game.
Although racial vilification of fans and players holds no place in our game, the feeling of being constantly watched in the stands leaves an eerie feeling.
Since the start of the season, we have seen a disabled man punched twice in the head, fights in the opening round and ANZAC day that have resulted in charges and umpire condemnation.
This instances have no place anywhere, let alone at the MCG or Marvel Stadium, but these fans who are involved in these incidents are the ones who encouraged such an over correction in security for the AFL.
Admittedly, finding the right balance between a high-level of security and safety and allowing attendees to do what they right is difficult.
Fans have now taken to social media to fight for their rights as supporters of the game in the stands.
Some big names such as 'Joffa' has threatened to not attend games as he feels that he cannot support the game in the way he wants.
Fans have duct-taped their mouths to signal their inability to talk at games, otherwise they'd be thrown out.
This saga has the AFL against one of its biggest stakeholders. The fans.
This issue must be resolved in the near future, otherwise it could see the attraction of going to the footy declining by the day.
