The 10th season of the AFL Women's (AFLW) league has been nothing short of a spectacle, blending resilience with growing pains as teams navigated a landscape of rapid evolution. While some clubs soared, others faltered, highlighting the uneven pace of adaptation in women's elite Australian Rules Football.
Weathering the Storm of Change
This season, the AFLW faced its fair share of challenges—expanded fixtures, shifting team dynamics, and the ever-present pressure to grow the game. Yet, amid the turbulence, the league demonstrated remarkable tenacity. Crowds grew, talent flourished, and the competition reached new heights, proving that women's footy is here to stay.
Not Everyone Kept Up
However, not all teams adapted equally. Some struggled with consistency, while others capitalised on strategic innovations. The gap between the top and bottom tiers widened, raising questions about how to maintain competitive balance in an expanding league.
The Road Ahead
As AFLW looks toward its next decade, the focus must shift to sustainability. Investment in grassroots development, coaching, and player welfare will be crucial to ensuring the league's long-term success. The foundation has been laid—now it's time to build.
