MEDIA RELEASE - AFL Barwon Female Football Age Group Changes

AFL Barwon is excited to announce that there will be an additional age group added into our Female Football Competitions in 2023.

After an extensive review, including consultation with the clubs and key stakeholders, the Female junior age groups will revert to Under 10, Under 12, Under 14, Under 16 and Under 19 for 2023 and beyond.

The age group change will provide a full female football pathway from juniors through to seniors, aligning with our mixed and male age group pathway.

There were some key events throughout the 2022 season that saw great numbers and support of females playing football – the Female Festival of Sport week consisted of a Junior Girls Round Robin. This led into a momentous final’s series with St Joseph’s FNC hosting one of its largest crowds in recent times.

AFL Barwon is keen to ensure we are providing the best pathway and support for the females in our community to ensure they continue playing football and have fun doing so.

AFL Barwon Region General Manager, Edward Wilson was quoted "The change in age groups represents the exponential growth our region has experienced, both pre, during and post COVID effected seasons. This change provides greater opportunities for participation, development, and career longevity, to ensure our female footballers are provided with the best environment locally to excel and enjoy their football.”

AFL Barwon Female Football Coordinator Bree Beckley was quoted “I very much look forward to continuing working alongside clubs for the 2023 season to help and give more girls the opportunity to play football. I want to ensure girls and women have fun playing the great game of footy in our region”

AFL Barwon wishes to thank all stakeholders for their collaboration and input throughout the review process.