The 2025 AFL Premiership season is finally here and so is the return of tipping - but we won't let you fly blind.
We have a new-look lineup of experts to guide your tips, including former premiership-winning coach John Longmire. Meg Lanning, Lachlan McKirdy and last year's winner, Lucy the Dog, have returned while the guys behind the True Bloods Podcast have hopped on board.
With the postponement of Opening Round games in Queensland due to Cyclone Alfred, we have just two matches to predict. The overwhelming favourites are Sydney and Collingwood. Do you agree?
If you haven't already be sure to sign up to the Official Tipping Competition of the Sydney Swans, presented by bitcoin.com.au and go head-to-head with your family friends. Bragging rights and weekly prizes are up for grabs.
OPENING ROUND TIPS
EXPERT TIPPERS
John Longmire:
Longmire took over the role of Sydney Swans senior coach in 2011, leading the red and white to 11 finals appearances and five Grand Finals. The club's longest-serving coach was part of the team to deliver the drought-breaking 2005 premiership, after joining the club as assistant coach in 2002. He played 200 games for North Melbourne, kicked 511 goals between 1988 to 1999 and appeared in the 1999 premiership-winning side.
Meg Lanning:
Meg Lanning became a household name in women's cricket when she was named the youngest ever captain of the national team. She is currently the longest-serving captain and is ranked the number one batter for T20 International cricket. Lanning also serves as a proud Sydney Swans ambassador.
True Bloods Podcast:
Hosted by David Baxter and Madison Clarke, the True Bloods Podcast is the number one independent Sydney Swans Fan podcast, run by supporters, for supporters. In late 2024 the podcast reached an impressive milestone with 200 episodes since its inception at the start of the 2018 season.
Lachlan McKirdy:
Lachlan McKirdy is an AFL reporter for The Daily Telegraph and CODE Sports based in Sydney. He has been following footy for as long as he can remember and backs himself to at least get one game right each weekend (even in the bye rounds). A sports journalist in various capacities for nearly 10 years, he has also worked with the International Olympic Committee and Sporting News.
Lucy:
Lucy the Great Dane spends her weekends parading around the Eastern Suburbs of Sydney – doing laps around her home ground - the SCG. Loves a walk in Centennial Park, chasing the Sherrin – the bigger the better - and eats a LOT, much like our Coach, ‘Horse’. Born in South Melbourne but recently re-located to the Harbour City. Favourite player is Great Dane Rampe.
