AFL to consider rule change to add Gaelic football solo in women’s competition

Currently, a bounce is required for players to extend a run beyond 15m but soloing the ball could be an option in the future.

Rachel Kearns soloing the ball twice during a run while playing for Geelong against Western Bulldogs recently received significant attention. Pic: Adam Trafford/AFL Photos via Getty Images

The AFL will consider a rule change to allow the Gaelic football solo, according to the executive general manager of the AFLW, Laura Kane.

Currently, a bounce is explicitly required for players in Australian rules running more than 15 metres. They do not have the option to solo the ball.

Mayo and Geelong star Rachel Kearns took off on a long run against the Western Bulldogs last week and soloed the ball twice. It attracted significant attention, but Kearns should have been penalised for running too far, given she went beyond the permitted 15m.

“It is not allowed right now, and it is not allowed through the next four weeks, just to be clear – I’ve been asked to say that,” said Kane at the launch of AFLW finals on Wednesday.

“But there are more than 45 Irish players that contribute to our game right now. We will have a look at it.” 

RACHEL KEARNS WITH THE IRISH PARTY TRICKS 🤯#AFLWCatsDogs pic.twitter.com/pSpAAaxzzz

— AFL Women's (@aflwomens) October 30, 2026

North Melbourne captain Jasmine Garner also said she was supportive of changing the rules. Garner plays alongside several Irish players including Vikki Wall, Bláithín Bogue, Erika O’Shea, Amy Gavin Mangan and Sarah Wall.

The AFLW finals start this weekend. On Saturday, Geelong play Melbourne and North Melbourne face Carlton in the qualifying finals. On Sunday, Sydney Swans take on Western Bulldogs and Gold Coast Suns play Hawthorn in the elimination finals.

Elsewhere, Kilkenny's Darragh Joyce has secured a new AFL contract with North Melbourne Kangaroos after he left Premiership champions Brisbane Lions.

The 29-year-old former Kilkenny minor hurling captain has signed as a delisted free agent. It is his third club after he first joined St Kilda in 2017.

“Darragh provides proven reliability and key-position flexibility that will strengthen our back half,” said Head of football talent, Brady Rawlings.