The AFL was once filled with Steves, Stephens, and Stevens, but now only one remains: GWS captain Stephen Coniglio. The retirement of Steven May has left just a single Steve in the league, marking a dramatic shift from the early 1990s when more than 25 Steves took the field. This trend mirrors broader naming cycles in Australia, where baby names rise and fall over generations.
The Rise and Fall of Steves in the AFL
From the 1980s through the early 2000s, the name Steve was a dominant force in Australian rules football. Hall of Famer Stephen Silvagni played during this peak era, representing Carlton with distinction. But as naming fashions changed, so did the AFL roster. By 2025, only Stephen Coniglio remains, signaling the end of an era.
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What Does the Data Show?
AFL Tables data reveals a clear pattern: the number of Steves has plummeted from over 25 in the early 1990s to just one today. Meanwhile, names like Jack, Tom, Sam, and Lachlan have surged. In 2026, the most common AFL name is Jack, with almost 30 players sharing it.
| Decade | Number of Steves (approx.) | Most Common Name |
|---|---|---|
| 1990s | 25+ | Steve |
| 2000s | 10-15 | Mark / Peter |
| 2020s | 1 | Jack |
Other Names Fading Away
It's not just Steves. Names like Mark, Peter, David, and Darren were common in the 1980s and 1990s but are now rare. Scott Pendlebury may be the last great Scott in the AFL. The cyclical nature of names means these could return, but for now, they are on the decline.
Key Takeaways
- The AFL had over 25 Steves in the early 1990s; now only one remains.
- Stephen Coniglio is the last Steve in the league after Steven May's retirement.
- Jack is the most common AFL name in 2026, with nearly 30 players.
- Other declining names include Mark, Peter, David, Darren, and Scott.
- Player name trends reflect broader Australian baby name cycles.
Why Do AFL Names Change?
Just like with all baby names, AFL player names follow generational trends. The name Steve peaked in popularity for babies born in the 1960s and 1970s, which aligns with the players who dominated the 1990s. Today's players, born in the 2000s, are more likely to be named Jack or Tom. This cycle will continue as new names emerge.
FAQ
How many Steves are left in the AFL?
As of 2025, only one Steve remains: GWS captain Stephen Coniglio. Steven May retired before the season began.
What is the most common name in the AFL?
Jack is the most common name in the AFL for 2026, with nearly 30 players. Tom, Sam, and Lachlan follow closely.
Why are there fewer Steves in the AFL now?
The name Steve was popular for babies born in the 1960s and 1970s. As those players retired, fewer younger players named Steve entered the league, reflecting broader naming trends.
For more insights into AFL player name trends and sports data, stay tuned to GrandGoldman.com. Whether you're a footy fan or a stats enthusiast, the story of the Steves is a fascinating glimpse into how culture shapes the game.
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