AFL grand final fan superstitions have taken hold of Brisbane Lions supporters ahead of Saturday's decider against Fremantle. From blasting Angry Anderson's 'Bound For Glory' to walking the dog in club colours, fans are convinced their rituals can influence the result.
Why Fan Superstitions Matter in the AFL Grand Final
For many supporters, the AFL grand final is not just a game – it's a chance to control the uncontrollable. Scott Fletcher, a logistics clerk from Pascoe Vale, walks his Cavoodle Louis every grand final morning while playing 'Bound For Glory'. He believes skipping this routine would jinx the Lions. "If we don't win, and I hadn't done that, then I'm going to wear it," he says. "The Lions losing will be on me."
This kind of thinking is common among footy tragics. It gives fans a sense of agency in a sport where outcomes are decided by athletes, not supporters. Yet the emotional investment makes these rituals feel essential.
Common Brisbane Lions Fan Rituals
Lions fans have developed a range of superstitions to help their team secure a three-peat. Some are personal, others are shared among groups. Here are some of the most popular:
- Wearing lucky apparel: Unwashed jerseys, lucky socks, or a specific hat worn only on game day.
- Listening to 'Bound For Glory': Angry Anderson's 1990 anthem is played at a set time to invoke past glories.
- Seating arrangements: Sitting in the same spot for every match, often with the same people.
- Food and drink: Eating the same pre-game meal or drinking from a lucky mug.
- Dog walks and other routines: As with Fletcher, daily habits become match-day necessities.
The Psychology Behind Superstitious Behaviour
Psychologists call this illusory correlation – the belief that two unrelated events are connected. When a fan wears a lucky scarf and the team wins, the scarf gets the credit. If the team loses, the fan may blame a missed ritual. This pattern reinforces the superstition.

For Lions fans, the stakes are high. A three-peat would cement the club's legacy. Superstitions provide comfort and a sense of participation in that journey.
Comparing Fan Superstitions Across AFL Clubs
Different clubs have unique traditions, but the underlying psychology is similar. The table below compares common superstitions among AFL fans.
| Club | Common Superstition | Belief |
|---|---|---|
| Brisbane Lions | Playing 'Bound For Glory' | Invokes winning spirit |
| Collingwood | Wearing black and white | Shows loyalty and brings luck |
| Richmond | Eating a meat pie at quarter time | Ensures strong performance |
| Fremantle | Wearing purple underwear | Secret to winning streak |
Key Takeaways for Fans
- Superstitions are a way for fans to cope with the unpredictability of sport.
- Rituals can enhance enjoyment and connection to the club.
- They are harmless unless they cause distress or interfere with daily life.
- Sharing superstitions builds community among supporters.
FAQ
What are AFL grand final fan superstitions?
AFL grand final fan superstitions are rituals or behaviours that supporters believe will influence their team's performance. Examples include wearing lucky clothing, playing specific songs, or following strict routines on game day.
Why do fans believe in superstitions?
Fans believe in superstitions because they provide a sense of control and comfort in unpredictable situations. The emotional investment in the team makes them seek ways to contribute to success, even if irrational.
Can superstitions actually affect the game?
No, superstitions do not directly affect the outcome of a game. However, they can boost fan morale and create a positive atmosphere, which indirectly supports the team.