AFL Women’s Round and the 2009 Women’s National Championships were launched in Perth today.
AFL Women’s Round provides an opportunity to recognise and celebrate the role females play at all levels, from grass roots to the elite competition.
The round will focus on recognising and developing female leadership across the Australian football industry, from participation to administration, management and football operations. Activities will take place across the round, including AFL and club events, curtain raisers involving female players and female NAB AFL Auskick participants.
The eleventh Women’s National Championships will commence in Perth on Wednesday June 3 and will conclude on Sunday June 7 with the Division One final to be played as the curtain-raiser to the West Coast v Geelong match at Subiaco Oval.
AFL Community Development Manager Dean Warren said the involvement of women and girls in Australian football is fundamental to the overall growth and development of the game.
“The AFL is committed to providing pathways for women and girls to be involved in Australian football whether it is in participation, umpiring, coaching, volunteering, administering or as a member.
“In 2008 participation in dedicated female football programs and competitions grew by 54 per cent, a fantastic result which we hope to build on in 2009,” Mr Warren said.
Importantly, women and girls also demonstrate their passion for Australian football as fans and supporters. Key women in football statistics include:
- 43 per cent of the television viewing audience
- 40 percent of AFL and club members in 2009
- 35 per cent of local club volunteers
- More than 78,000 participants, which represents 13 percent of overall participation
- 1500 accredited coaches
- More than 700 female umpires
2009 Women’s National Championships
The biennial Women’s National Championships provide an opportunity for the nation’s most talented female footballers to represent their state or territory.
These are the eleventh championships and for the first time they will be contested under a trail two division format.
Division 1
Australian Capital Territory
Queensland
Victoria
Western Australia
Division 2
New South Wales
Northern Territory
South Australia
Host WA – 2nd tier WA team
The inaugural Debbie Lee Medal will be presented to the Division One best and fairest player and the All-Australian team will be announced after the Division One final.
2009 Women’s National Championship Fixture
| Wednesday June 3 | 10.30am - WA v QLD, Steel Blue Oval |
| Thursday June 4 | 10.30am - WA v VIC, South Fremantle |
| Friday June 5 | Rest Day |
| Saturday June 6 | 10.30am - ACT v WA, Claremont Oval |
| Sunday June 7 | 9am - Division 2 Final, South Fremantle |
Victoria has won the last two championships and WA has been the runner up.
