One of the most familiar voices in Australian sports broadcasting is making a shock return to our living rooms for the blockbuster final three games of the AFL season. Bruce McAvaney, the doyen of football commentary who has provided the soundtrack to some of the game’s finest moments, will take on a key hosting role with Channel 7 for this weekend’s two preliminary finals and the grand final on September 28.
McAvaney retired from full-time commentating at the end of the 2020 season, but will return to screens on Friday night when Sydney host Port Adelaide. He will then be a part of the network’s coverage of Saturday night’s preliminary final between Geelong and Brisbane at the MCG and on grand final day a week later.
McAvaney said he was thrilled to be covering another AFL grand final. “The AFL Grand Final is the greatest Saturday in Australian sport. And when I was asked a couple of weeks ago to be involved in a hosting role, there was a lot to consider. But the overwhelming sentiment was, how exciting it would be to be involved.”
The 71-year-old won't be commentating, but will be hosting the network's coverage of the three biggest games of the season. “Just think about what’s happened over the weekend – two semi-finals for the ages. (That’s) extraordinary, in a season that’s produced more excitement, more entertainment and more upsets than any in recent memory. Look what we’re facing now. Four teams from four states and that hasn’t happened since 2005. Honestly, who knows what’s going to happen in these last three matches for 2024. I can’t wait to get to the SCG for Friday when it all starts.”
McAvaney's Return: A Touch of Nostalgia
McAvaney stepped away from AFL commentary duties in 2020 as he scaled back his media commitments. He's maintained a regular role in Channel 7's coverage of horse racing and big athletics meets, and also acted as host for the network's coverage of the FIFA Women's World Cup last year. His absence from the AFL commentary box, however, has been felt by many fans.
His return to the commentary box is a testament to his enduring popularity and the significant impact he has had on Australian sports broadcasting. McAvaney has been a fixture on Australian television for decades, providing insightful commentary on a wide range of sports, including AFL, horse racing, and athletics. His passion for the game, his sharp wit, and his ability to connect with viewers have made him one of the most beloved figures in Australian sports media.
A New Chapter for McAvaney
McAvaney’s decision to return to AFL broadcasting is a welcome one for fans who have missed his presence on the airwaves. His return is sure to add a touch of nostalgia to the finals series. McAvaney's return signifies his continued involvement in the world of Australian sports and his commitment to delivering high-quality commentary and analysis to viewers.
Seven West Media chief executive Jeff Howard described McAvaney as “a living legend and the best sports broadcaster of our generation”. “He is part of the fabric of Seven and we are honoured that he is returning to our 7AFL coverage for the biggest three games of the season.”
The commentary legend wasn't part of the TV coverage of the recent Paris Olympics, due to the fact Channel 9 had the broadcast rights. But he secured a last-minute spot on ABC radio, meaning listeners could still hear his voice.
A New Era for Seven's AFL Coverage
Seven’s Brownlow Medal and AFL Grand Final broadcast mark the beginning of a new era on Seven, where Australians can stream Seven’s AFL match coverage live and free on 7plus, for the first time. This move is a major development in the Australian media landscape, marking a significant shift in how fans will consume their AFL fix. This will be a welcome addition for viewers who are unable to access traditional television broadcasts, expanding the reach and accessibility of AFL coverage.
What to Expect from McAvaney's Return
McAvaney's return promises to be a highlight of the AFL finals series. Fans can expect his signature blend of insight, wit, and passion as he guides viewers through the final three games of the season. With his deep knowledge of the game and his ability to connect with viewers, McAvaney is sure to make the finals even more exciting and entertaining.
The Final Countdown: A Thrilling Finish to the Season
With the AFL finals reaching a fever pitch, fans are in for a treat with McAvaney’s return. The season has been unpredictable and thrilling, with a number of surprises and upsets along the way. With four teams from four states vying for the ultimate prize, the 2024 AFL Grand Final is set to be a nail-biting affair. As we count down to the last Saturday in September, fans can also tune in to the 2024 Brownlow Medal on Monday 23 September, live and free from anywhere, exclusively on Seven and 7plus.
It all kicks up another gear from Friday night when minor premiers the Sydney Swans host Port Adelaide in the first of two preliminary finals at the SCG, with Seven’s live and free coverage starting at 7.00 pm AEST on Channel 7 and 7mate. Then, on Saturday, 7AFL will take viewers live to packed MCG, when Geelong meet Brisbane for a do-or-die elimination final, live and free from 4.00pm on Channel 7 and 7mate. On Grand Final day, viewers will enjoy more than 12 hours of coverage live and free on Channel 7 and exclusively on 7plus, kicking off at 7.00am with the Weekend Sunrise AFL Grand Final Day Special and continuing non-stop until the Grand Final post-match presentations and celebrations wind up.
In a special treat for all Australians, fans will enjoy McAvaney’s supreme insight and experience when he join’s football’s #1 commentary team in a key hosting role across the final epic three games of the season. The stage is set for a thrilling finish, and with Bruce McAvaney back on the scene, the 2024 AFL finals are sure to be an unforgettable spectacle.
