AFLW

The AFL Women's, commonly known as AFLW, is the premier professional Australian rules football competition for women in Australia. It was established in 2017 by the Australian Football League (AFL) as part of an initiative to increase female participation and provide a professional pathway for women in the sport. The league features eight teams in its inaugural season, expanding to 10 teams in 2019 and 18 teams by 2023, reflecting its rapid growth and popularity.

AFLW operates as a semi-professional competition, with player wages and conditions improving significantly since its inception. The season typically runs from late August to late October, with a regular season followed by a finals series culminating in a Grand Final. The competition has been credited with inspiring a new generation of female athletes and significantly boosting the profile of women's sport in Australia. It showcases a fast-paced and skillful style of play, attracting large crowds and substantial media attention. The league's expansion demonstrates a strong commitment from the AFL to developing and supporting women's football.