The 10th season of the Australian Football League Women’s (AFLW) begins on August 14. This milestone is a special and exciting moment for the league! As AFL chief executive Andrew Dillon understands, the environment is difficult with falling crowds and TV viewership. Even then he’s adamant that creating the AFLW is an “investment still worth making.” To do so, he pointed to the league’s considerable growth potential. This growth is key to achieving the AFL’s bigger attendance and membership goals.
Dillon was the opening act at the AFL’s annual industry summit. He consulted staff from each of the clubs involved to explore the exhilarating prospects ahead for the competition. He acknowledged that the AFLW seasons have just recently grown in number and duration. He lauded the leaps forward in player salaries and overall quality of life. Yet, at the same time, he lamented the troubling lost attendance and viewership figures in recent years.
The Importance of AFLW
Dillon noted the impact of the AFLW through being a critical “footer” in the league’s broader strategy. He expressed confidence that the competition is on the right track, stating, “I think it’s an investment well worth making.” This statement reflects his belief that despite current struggles, the benefits of supporting women’s football extend beyond immediate financial returns.
Since the very beginning, the AFLW has achieved remarkable feats. Their increased investment has brought state of the art infrastructure and player support. Dillon noted that these improvements have resulted in higher salaries and enhanced working conditions for athletes, which are crucial for attracting and retaining talent in the league.
Addressing Attendance and Ratings
This loss in spectators and TV audiences presents a real test to the AFLW, as it heads toward its 10th season. Dillon knew that was a problem. In his view, while the direct profits may be waning, there are still huge indirect benefits that the league provides. As Evans put it, providing a viable women’s competition strengthens the AFL brand. This major improvement encourages increased public participation.
“Coming into season 10, we’ve got a really solid base from which I think we’ll grow,” Dillon remarked, underscoring his optimism about the future of the league. Supporters are trilling at the way the AFLW plays – an open, attacking, free-flowing game. They’re all looking forward to another great competitive season waiting in the wings!
Looking Ahead
As the competition gets set for its biggest and best season yet, hopes are high the boom times continue. The league is committed above all else to increasing attendance and television viewership. Its mission further includes an ambition to foster an exciting community around women’s football. Dillon’s remarks at the industry summit reinforce a commitment to support and develop AFLW as an integral part of the AFL’s vision.
