WA female AFL team a win for all

• Fremantle Football Club to field women’s AFL team in 2017
• A win for women and community sport

Sport and Recreation Minister Mia Davies today congratulated the Fremantle Football Club on receiving a licence to field a team in the 2017 AFL National Women’s League.

“The announcement of the first female Australian Football League (AFL) team in Western Australia is historic and a win for women’s football at every level,” Ms Davies said.

“While I believe we have the talent here to have two teams, I am proud a Western Australian club was awarded one of the eight licences issued today by the AFL.

“WA has a long, proud history of women’s football and this announcement will further develop it.”

The Minister said female football was fast growing in WA, with nearly 50,000 female players now registered – up from 18,000 in 2012.

“For those women who have always dreamed of being able to play in the AFL, I hope this announcement inspires them to stay involved in the sport,” she said.

“The pathway for females to play football is now complete, with girls able to play Auskick from five years of age, into youth and senior community-based competitions, right through to the elite level.

“I hope today’s announcement encourages other women to take up playing football or even get involved in coaching, umpiring or sports administration.”