The AFL's stubborn refusal to move an international women's game to a larger venue has sparked a heated debate, with many questioning their commitment to supporting the women's competition. The decision to host the Australia-Ireland clash at the North Sydney Oval, a venue with a capacity of only 9,000, has been met with widespread criticism. This move, in the eyes of many, is a missed opportunity to showcase the growing popularity of women's football and to capitalize on the momentum generated by the recent success of the AFLW.
What makes this situation particularly intriguing is the contrast between the AFL's stance and the NRL's approach. The NRL has been praised for its support of the women's program, providing a platform for big moments and prestigious events. This is in stark contrast to the AFL's strategy, which some argue is falling short of the mark. The NRL's willingness to embrace and promote women's sports is a refreshing change, especially when compared to the AFL's seemingly limited efforts.
From my perspective, the AFL's decision to stick to the North Sydney Oval is a strategic mistake. By not utilizing larger venues, they are potentially limiting the game's reach and impact. The fact that the AFLW grand final attracted 53,000 fans in 2019 suggests that there is a genuine appetite for women's football among the Australian public. The AFL should be capitalizing on this momentum and providing a platform for international matches to further grow the sport.
One thing that immediately stands out is the AFL's response to the criticism. Instead of addressing the concerns head-on, they have opted for a defensive strategy, deflecting the blame and emphasizing the success of the ticket sales. While it's commendable to acknowledge the excitement surrounding the event, this approach only highlights the AFL's reluctance to take bold steps. The list of pubs advertising the game on TV, as mentioned by former player Lauren Arnell, further emphasizes the sense of limitation and restriction that the AFL is inadvertently creating.
This raises a deeper question about the AFL's long-term vision for the women's competition. Are they content with maintaining the status quo and gradually building up the women's game, or do they aspire to create a truly iconic and influential women's football league? The answer lies in their willingness to take risks and make bold decisions. If the AFL wants to be seen as a leader in women's sports, they must be prepared to go the extra mile and provide the necessary support and exposure.
In my opinion, the AFL's stubbornness is a missed opportunity. By not embracing the potential of larger venues and international matches, they are limiting the growth and impact of the women's competition. It is time for the AFL to take a step back and reevaluate their strategy, ensuring that they are providing the necessary support and exposure to truly back the women's program. Only then can they hope to avoid being embarrassed by their competitors, the NRL, who seem to be leading the way in women's sports.
