Gifts for footy players, AFL to rugby

In Australia, footy can mean Aussie rules, rugby league or rugby union, and we have gear for each code. Here are gift ideas any footy player will use, from a fresh ball to the kit that comes to every training session.

Footy gifts for every code

Balls first, then the kit that comes to every game.

Size 5 Australian rules football in club colours
AUSSIE RULES

Club footballs, from size 5 game balls to minis.

What to prioritise
Pick their club

AFL Footballs

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Black and red size 5 rugby match ball
LEAGUE & UNION

Rugby balls in sizes for juniors through to seniors.

What to prioritise
Every size

Rugby Balls

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Black padded rugby shoulder guard
PROTECTION

Mouthguards, shoulder pads and supportive undershorts.

What to prioritise
Contact ready

Rugby Protective Gear

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Black football boot bag with a carry handle
EASY WIN

Boot bags that keep muddy footy boots away from kit.

What to prioritise
Mud stays put

Shoe & Boot Bags

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Black and grey short-sleeved rugby shirt
TRAINING KIT

Training tees, shorts and rugby boots for league and union.

What to prioritise
Check sizing

Rugby Clothing

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Black youth cap with a club wordmark
FOR THE FAN

Club caps, tees and fan pieces for game day.

What to prioritise
Club colours

AFL Fan Gear

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What makes a good footy gift

It matches their code

An AFL football and a rugby ball are quite different, so check which game they play first. If they play both, a ball for each is a winner.

It supports safer play

Mouthguards are a standard part of most contact footy kits, and many clubs expect players to wear one. A dentist-fitted guard is often recommended for regular contact, so a shop-bought guard makes a handy spare.

It keeps their kit together

Boots, a water bottle, tape and a change of clothes all need a home. A boot bag stops muddy boots ending up on everything else.

It shows off their team

Club caps and tees are a fun gift for players who also follow a team. They're easy to give and get worn well beyond game day.

Gift-giving tips

Ask which code and club

Find out whether they play Aussie rules, league or union, and which team they follow, before you choose a ball or fan gear.

Check sizes for juniors

Junior players use smaller balls, and kit sizes change quickly as kids grow. Ask their coach or check what they use now.

Let them choose their boots

Boots depend on fit and the ground they play on, so they're best picked with the player. A boot bag is the safer gift.

Gift ideas at a glance

GiftWhy they'll love itTip
AFL FootballsA club ball for kick-to-kick anytimeCheck their team before you buy
Rugby BallsA good ball for training and backyard gamesMatch the size to their age group
Rugby Protective GearExtra protection for contact sessionsCheck what their club requires
Shoe & Boot BagsKeeps muddy boots away from clean kitAn easy gift with no sizing
Rugby ClothingTraining kit that handles rough playCheck their size on a current top
AFL Fan GearShows off the club they loveCaps avoid sizing worries

Help it last

  • Knock mud off boots and let them dry naturally, away from direct heat.
  • Keep footballs at the right pressure and store them out of the sun.
  • Rinse mouthguards after use and keep them in a ventilated case.
  • Wash training kit soon after muddy sessions so stains don't set.

Frequently asked questions

What does footy mean in Australia?

It depends where you are. In Victoria, South Australia, Western Australia and Tasmania, footy usually means Australian rules, while in New South Wales and Queensland it often means rugby league. Rugby union players use the word too, so it's worth asking which code the player in your life plays before you buy a ball.

What's a good gift for a junior footy player?

A ball in the right size for their age group is the classic choice, and a boot bag is a practical extra parents appreciate. Check with their club about what protective gear juniors are expected to wear. Kit sizes change quickly, so items with no sizing are often the easiest picks.

Is a mouthguard a good gift?

It's a sensible part of most contact footy kits, and many clubs expect players to wear one. For regular contact play, a mouthguard fitted by a dentist is often recommended for the best fit. A shop-bought guard works well as a spare or for training, so check what the player already uses.

What can I buy a footy player who has everything?

Go for things that wear out or go missing, like a spare training ball, a boot bag or fresh sports socks. Club fan gear is another good choice if they follow a team. A ball pump is a handy extra that most players need at some point.

What are good small gifts for footy fans?

A club cap, a mini supporter football or a keyring in their team colours all make easy small gifts. Players will also use a boot bag or a pack of sports socks every week. These suit both players and fans, and none of them need sizing.

Good luck for the season ahead

Pick a ball for their code, then add a small extra or two. It's gear they'll take to every training session.

Free delivery on orders over $150. Members get our lifetime warranty.

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Footy players running a ball drill at training