Hobart may not be the first city that comes to mind when you think of Australia’s sports hubs, but this charming Tasmanian capital punches well above its weight class in the sporting arena.
For international students looking to dive deep into what makes Hobart tick, exploring its sports culture is a must. Here, sports are not just games; they are celebrations of community, history and local pride. So, whether you’re a die-hard fan ready to paint your face in team colours, or a curious newcomer eager to experience the thrill of the game, Hobart welcomes you with open arms.
Australian Rules Football
The teams
Tasmania Devils: Excitement is building as Hobart prepares to support its very own AFL team, the Tasmania Devils, starting in 2028. Sporting a uniform of dark green with a yellow map of Tasmania, the team is a symbol of local pride and sporting passion.
The league – AFL and AFLW
The Australian Football League (AFL) is the premier competition in Australian rules football, known for its exciting and high-intensity gameplay.
The upcoming inclusion of the Tasmania Devils will expand the league to 19 teams, enhancing its diversity and competitive edge. The AFL men’s season runs from March to September, while the women’s AFLW season takes place from October to December, providing thrilling sports action year-round.
In the meantime – TSL
While waiting for the Tasmania Devils to join the AFL, you can enjoy some high-quality local football through the Tasmanian State League (TSL). Managed by AFL Tasmania, this league features seven clubs across the state. It’s a great way to get familiar with Tasmania’s football scene and support local teams.
Where to watch
If you’re looking to catch some live Tasmanian State League football in Hobart, head to Blundstone Arena, KGV Oval in nearby Glenorchy, North Hobart Oval or SkyBus Oval. These venues are central to Hobart’s sports scene, offering a great atmosphere to experience the local football culture and cheer on upcoming talent.
There’s also talks about a futuristic new stadium being built at Macquarie Point—stay tuned!
Cricket
The team
Hobart Hurricanes: As soon as summer hits, cricket fever takes over. The Hobart Hurricanes light up the Big Bash League with explosive matches that turn spectators into superfans overnight.
The league
The Big Bash League is Australia’s premier T20 cricket competition, featuring fast-paced, high-energy games that attract fans both locally and globally.
Where to watch
Join the local and international fans at Blundstone Arena, where the action isn’t just on the field—the scenic backdrop of the River Derwent adds a whole other layer of awe to the games.
Soccer
The league
As the A-League’s spotlight hasn’t landed in Hobart just yet, the National Premier Leagues Tasmania (NPL Tasmania) and NPL Women’s is where the action is. This league is full of talent, featuring the best clubs and players from across the state. It’s fast, fierce, and full of flair
Where to watch
For a real taste of local soccer spirit, head over to North Hobart Oval, South Hobart Oval or KGV Park. These venues also regularly host A-League matches for teams from around Australia. Expect a lively atmosphere, great snacks and maybe even some friendly banter with the locals.
Basketball
The teams
The Tasmania JackJumpers have brought premier basketball back to Tasmania with a bang! This team has sparked a renewed excitement for basketball throughout the state, drawing crowds and building a passionate fan base.
The league
Catch the Tasmania JackJumpers in the National Basketball League (NBL) as they dribble, dunk and dash their way through the games. The NBL brings together the best teams from across Australia for top-quality basketball action.
Where to watch
Catch the fast-paced action at the newly renovated MyState Bank Arena in Hobart.
Other sports
Sailing: The Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race is a major event in Hobart, held every year on Boxing Day. It’s a great opportunity to see an impressive fleet of yachts up close as they finish the race in Hobart’s harbour. The event draws large crowds and features festivities along the waterfront.
Rugby: Experience the grassroots spirit of rugby in Hobart at local venues like Rugby Park in Cornelian Bay and North Hobart Oval.
How to watch the games if you can’t attend
Can’t make it to the games? No worries! Streaming lets you feel the excitement live, from AFL antics on the AFL Live App to cricket clashes on Cricket Australia’s streaming service, and everything in between. For broadcast rights, channel 9 airs NRL games free to air, channel 7 shows the AFL and the Cricket, while KAYO and Fox Sports show sports matches but are subscription-based streaming services.
Hobart’s pubs and bars also offer a fun setting to watch a game. Notable spots include:
- The Telegraph Hotel: A hub for football and cricket fans.
- Pavilion @ Salamanca: Hobart’s most popular sports bar
- Shipwright’s Arms: Popular among locals for its match-day atmosphere.
