REIGNING AFL Women's premiers Brisbane have confirmed it will play its home games at Maroochydore in 2022.
As reported by womens.afl last week the Lions will travel 90 minutes north of Brisbane to host opponents at Maroochydore Multi Sports Complex in defence of its title.
It will be the sixth home ground in the Lions' short history, following matches at South Pine Sports Complex (Brendale), Metricon Stadium (for the 2017 Grand Final), Moreton Bay Central Sports Complex (Burpengary), Hickey Park and the Gabba.
The Lions' coach Craig Starcevich denied the move to the Sunshine Coast would disadvantage his players.
"That's the mantra the girls have had all the way through," Starcevich said.
"Last year presented a number of challenges and they rose to the occasion every time.
"But I don't see that as being an obstacle in this case, because this venue and ground is absolutely magnificent.
"Some of the best state league footy I've watched has been on this ground; it's very conducive to good footy."
Head of women's football Bree Brock said minimising disruption to local football clubs in Brisbane was front of mind in the Lions’ search for a home ground.
"There's four full size ovals here, lots of changerooms, so the impact on local clubs that play here will be a lot less," Brock said on Friday morning.
The Sunshine Coast Council has partnered with the club for the move.
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Brisbane's Academy zone includes the Sunshine Coast, with current AFLW players Belle Dawes, Shannon Campbell, Lily Postlethwaite, Sharni Webb, Maggie Harmer and Bella Smith all hailing from the area.
The Lions will consider travelling on game day although that will depend on the day and time of games.