In this month’s Inside Sport, one of our fine, regular features writers Matt Cleary explains the how, and ventures a guess at why going back to back has developed into a modern day occult art.

For instance, in rugby league there hasn’t been a back-to-back premier since the Brisbane Broncos of ’92-’93. In the AFL in the last 25 years, just two teams have won three straight: the Brisbane Lions (’01-’03) and Hawthorn (’13-’15). The Adelaide Crows won in ’97 and ’98.

Meanwhile, the Sydney Swans (premiers in 2005) and West Coast Eagles (2006) may have won consecutive premierships if not for each other. Geelong? Sure, they won three flags in four grand finals across five years – but none back-to-back.

 

Footy grand finals have always produced fairy tale finishes … they’ve also proven to be hero-makers. For our grand final special edition, James Smith caught up with a bloke who fits both bills – Penrith legend Royce Simmons. Don’t miss our four-page interview with the Panthers’ favourite son.

(Photo by Getty Images)

In a new book, The Norm Smith Medallists, the man known simply as Cyril opens up about his grand final experiences, including that moment in 2015 when he became the third member of his family to be judged best afield in the decider. We caught up with Rioli for our latest issue, too.

(Photo by Getty Images)

As our two biggest footy codes near their summer siesta, another one is only just warming up … Do not miss our comprehensive 24-page A-League season preview!

 

To many Aussies, the footy/cricket cross-over can only mean one thing – BATHURST! In that tradition, our man Richard Lindstrom writes about how Craig Lowndes, while following in the footsteps of his hero Peter Brock as a youngster, has developed into a legend in his own right.  

 

The talent and tenacity of the nation’s basketballers such as Patty Mills have made the hoops world pay attention. And now, as Jeff Centenera explains, the system that made Mills and company is embracing a new role – teaching the rest of the world the Aussie way to play.

 

ALL THIS AND PLENTY MORE IN THE OCTOBER 2018 EDITION OF INSIDE SPORT MAGAZINE – ON SALE NOW!