In 1974, the VFL competition consisted of twelve teams of 18 on-the-field players each, plus two substitute players, known as the 19th man and the 20th man.

In 1942, the VFL competition consisted of eleven teams of 18 on-the-field players each (Geelong did not field a team due to wartime rail and road transport restrictions), plus one substitute player, known as the 19th man.

In 1944, with Geelong competing again, the VFL competition once again consisted of twelve teams of 18 on-the-field players each, plus one substitute player, known as the 19th man.

In 1898, all VFL teams had 20 on-the-field players, and no "reserves".

The VFL reduced the size of its teams to 18 on-the-field players, with no "reserves".

In 1910, the VFL competition comprised ten teams of 18 on-the-field players each, with no "reserves", although any of the 18 players who had left the playing field for any reason could later resume their place on the field at any time during the match.

In 1895, the VFA competition consisted of thirteen teams of 20 on-the-field players each.

In 1931, the VFL competition consisted of twelve teams of 18 on-the-field players each, plus one substitute player, known as the 19th man.

The AFL increased the number of interchange players to three which, when added to the "run on" team of 18 on-the-field players, increased the standard team squad size to 21 players.