Common afl rotations worked out
These are the splits for some of the squad sizes that come up most often. Your own numbers go in the calculator above.
| Squad | On at once | Game length | Time on | Time on bench |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 20 players | 15 | 60 min | 45 min | 15 min |
| 24 players | 18 | 60 min | 45 min | 15 min |
| 16 players | 12 | 48 min | 36 min | 12 min |
| 22 players | 18 | 60 min | 49m 05s | 10m 55s |
AFL formats and squad sizes
| Format | Typical game length | Typical squad |
|---|---|---|
| Auskick | modified, short sessions | varies |
| 9v9 / 12v12 modified | 4 x 10-12 min quarters | 12-18 |
| 15v15 | 4 x 12-15 min quarters | 18-22 |
| 18v18 juniors | 4 x 15 min quarters | 22-26 |
Game lengths vary between associations and age groups, so treat these as a starting point and use your own competition's numbers.
How the interchange works in junior footy
Junior AFL uses unlimited interchange, and most leagues run modified formats with fewer than 18 a side at younger ages. The bigger the squad, the more players are on the bench at once, and the easier it is for someone to quietly miss a quarter.
Most junior leagues also set a minimum game time requirement, often around half the available time at younger ages. The exact rule varies by state and by age group, so check your league's junior match policy. The calculator shows you the actual split so you can confirm you are over the line.
With 20 players and 15 on the ground across a 60 minute game, each player gets 45 minutes on and 15 off. Rotating the 5 off as a block at fixed intervals is the simplest way to run it from the bench.
Questions coaches ask
How do I make sure every player gets equal game time in junior AFL?
Multiply the game length by the number on the ground, then divide by your squad. With 60 minutes, 18 on the ground and 24 players, that's 45 minutes each. Rotate the 6 on the bench as a block and the split holds.
What is the minimum game time rule in junior football?
Most junior leagues require a minimum, commonly around half the available game time at younger ages, but it varies by state and age group. Check your league's junior match policy, then use the calculator to confirm your rotation meets it.
Does this work for modified formats like 9v9 and 12v12?
Yes. Set players on the ground to 9, 12, 15 or 18 and it works out the rotation for whatever squad you have.
Can I print an AFL interchange rotation sheet?
Yes. Add your player names, calculate, then print. You get a named rotation for all four quarters, free and with no signup.
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