Whether you’re a hardcore fanatic or a complete newby, footy season is back to add drama, action, suspense and blind loyalty to your weekends.

Here’s our guide to making the most of what promises to be a cracking season:

1. Book the big TV

There’s nothing worse than looking forward to settling in for a big match in front of the footy, only to discover a gang of kids watching Frozen for the 217th time. Slap a post-it note on the flatscreen with date and time in advance. Sort out a cheap second TV for the kids if you have to!

2. Become Footy Central

Because watching sport is an experience best shared, why not make your place the place to be this season. Your friends will love having a regular Friday Night Footy hang-out and it’s way better than jostling for room at the pub.

Hook up the stereo, find plenty of snack bowls, drag out the spare couch from the shed and borrow an old bar fridge. Don’t forget, as host you’re entitled to the best seat in the house, front and centre!

3. Be Prepared

Trying to make it home for kick-off on a Friday night can be a challenge. Getting away from work on time, beating the traffic and trying to decide on the best drinks at Cellarbrations on the way home can all be made less stressful by a bit of planning ahead.

Hosting Friday Night Footy is a big responsibility when it comes to snacks and drinks. You never want to be caught short in either department, so don’t leave it all to the last minute. Here’s some tips:

•  Don’t settle for plain old chips and cabanossi. There’s an ever expanding range of snacks available for experimenting with. Who knew salted caramel popcorn was a thing?
• Stock up on the classics. Who doesn’t love a VB on game night? Cans of Bundy & Cola are also a great handy option. A bottle of Wolf Blass Yellow Label adds a touch of sophistication to the drinks fridge. Check out Our Specials in your area or chat to our knowledgeable staff for more ideas.
• You can also lighten your load by asking the gang to bring round their favourite game-time beverage, they’ll be more than happy. But make sure there’s plenty of ice on hand and room in the fridge!

4. Brush up on some stats and talking points

Nothing worse than rocking up for watching a match with friends and not being able to add to the lively commentary. Impress and educate with some choice nuggets of footy knowledge and hot topics.

Like: Did you know it’s been 25 years since there’s been back to back Premiers? Is this the year to break the drought?

Or how about: Has SuperCoach lost his aura this season, or will he turn it around?

Then there’s the favourite talking point at the beginning of any season: Which coach will be the first to go?

5. Show your true colours

Doesn’t matter who’s playing, or who your friends support, nothing adds to the atmosphere like getting out the colours.

In addition to official merchandise, don’t be afraid to show support for your team with face paint from the $2 shop. While you’re there grab a few colourful wigs for full effect!

Why not make some banners to really add to that ‘fanatics at the game’ flavour? Just grab an old bedsheet, tins of fabric paint and two broom handles. Bad puns recommended.

However you choose, just turn up in your team colours, wave the flag, scream and shout like no-one’s watching and enjoy the phenomenon that is FOOTY.