Speedbumps certain but AFLW growing fast as Irish pathway evolves

Tipperary's West Coast Eagles star Aisling McCarthy is busy preparing for her fourth season Down Under and was recently named in the side’s leadership group

MY BALL: West Coast Eagles’ Aisling McCarthy is tackled by Brisbane Lions’ Lily Postlethwaite during an AFLW match at Hickey Park Brisbane, this year.  Picture: Albert Perez/Getty Images

The big splash was delivered skilfully and strategically. The day before the AFL announced their 2022 fixture schedule, the AFLW general manager and a host of players gathered at Melbourne’s Marvel Stadium. Determined to make a statement.

Simultaneously, a well-produced video appeared on social media, promoting a bright future. The Women’s Coach Acceleration Programme was launched. Then came the big pledge. A Women’s Football Vision for 2021-2030. AFLW players will become the best-paid sportswomen in an Australian domestic competition and at least half of the AFLW senior coaches will be women by 2030.