AFL Considers Implementation of Premiership Rings

The Australian Football League (AFL) is reportedly considering a proposal to award premiership rings to every player on the winning team of the AFL Grand Final, a tradition akin to those seen in major US sports leagues.

The concept, dubbed “Barassi Rings” after late AFL legend Ron Barassi, would see each player and member of the coaching staff of the premiership-winning team receive a customised ring to commemorate their victory. The rings are said to be inspired by the championship rings commonly awarded in American sports leagues such as the NFL and NBA.

Reports suggest that each Barassi Ring would cost approximately $50,000, with the AFL estimating a total expenditure of $1 million if implemented across all players and staff members of the winning team.

This proposal aligns with the AFL’s ongoing efforts to enhance the prestige and celebration surrounding the league’s premier event, the AFL Grand Final. It also reflects a growing trend among sports leagues worldwide to adopt traditions and practices from other successful sporting cultures.

While discussions surrounding the potential introduction of Barassi Rings are ongoing, the proposal has garnered attention and generated discussion among fans and stakeholders within the AFL community.