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Victorian AFL Origin Team Announced, Collins Selected

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Tuesday, February 3rd 2026 at 2:55 GMT by The West Australian
      Locale: AUSTRALIA

Gold Coast, QLD - February 3rd, 2026 - The resurgence of state-based representative football in the Australian Football League (AFL) continues to gain momentum with the announcement of the Victorian AFL Origin team today. The team, designed to celebrate and showcase the best AFL talent born and raised in Victoria, will clash with a combined South Australian and Tasmanian side on May 18th at the picturesque University Bay Road ground. The inclusion of Gold Coast Suns key defender Sam Collins is a particularly notable selection, marking a return to representing his home state after a successful career forged in Western Australia and Queensland.

The concept of AFL Origin teams has seen a revival in recent years, fuelled by a desire to recapture the intense state rivalries that characterized earlier eras of the game. While the AFL's national expansion has undoubtedly broadened the league's appeal, some fans and commentators have lamented the loss of the strong regional identities that previously defined the competition. The Origin matches aim to address this, providing a platform for players to represent their birth state and reignite those traditional passions.

Sam Collins' journey to this selection is a compelling story. Drafted by the Fremantle Dockers in 2018, the Victorian-born player quickly established himself as a reliable defender in the tough Western Australian competition. After four seasons with the Dockers, Collins sought a new opportunity and joined the Gold Coast Suns in 2021. This move proved pivotal, allowing him to flourish and become a cornerstone of the Suns' defensive line. His consistent performances this season have earned him the coveted spot in the Victorian squad, and the praise of Victorian coach Brent Grima.

"Sam's a Victorian boy through and through," Grima stated. "A tough, no-fuss player who's really gone on with his form. He's one of those players you don't mind having in your side and he's been playing some super footy for the Suns this year." Grima, himself a decorated former player with both North Melbourne and Hawthorn, understands the importance of selecting players who embody the spirit of Victorian football - grit, resilience, and a relentless work ethic.

The decision to field a combined South Australian and Tasmanian team reflects the logistical challenges of forming competitive squads from smaller states. Both states have historically produced outstanding AFL players, but their limited player pools often make it difficult to match the depth of talent available in larger states like Victoria, New South Wales, and Queensland. By joining forces, SA and TAS aim to create a more formidable opponent and ensure a competitive contest.

University Bay Road, the chosen venue, is expected to draw a large crowd eager to witness the return of state-based football. The ground's intimate setting will undoubtedly amplify the atmosphere and heighten the sense of rivalry between the two teams. Organizers are anticipating a sell-out crowd, with fans traveling from across Victoria, South Australia, and Tasmania to support their respective states.

The full Victorian team will be unveiled tomorrow, Wednesday, February 4th, with anticipation building around which other Victorian stars will join Collins in the squad. Speculation is rife regarding potential selections, with several high-profile players currently enjoying strong seasons for their respective AFL clubs. Many expect a strong contingent of players from Collingwood, Richmond, and Carlton to be included, reflecting the recent success of these Victorian powerhouses.

The revival of AFL Origin matches isn't just about nostalgia. It's also about fostering a sense of pride and identity within the AFL community. By allowing players to represent their home states, the league hopes to strengthen the connection between fans and the game, and create a more vibrant and engaging spectacle. The May 18th clash at University Bay Road promises to be a captivating contest, and a significant step in cementing the future of state-based representative football in the AFL.