Northern Territory Leading the Way in AFLW Growth
In the heart of Australia, where football reigns supreme, one territory is setting the standard for women’s Australian Rules football. The Northern Territory boasts the highest participation rate of girls and women in the sport, with females making up over 40 percent of registered players, twice the national average. Over the last four years, 41 female teams and 291 participants have joined the NT Football League (NTFL), highlighting a significant surge in interest and talent.
Timing plays a crucial role in this growth, as the competition runs from October to March, creating a window for professional and semi-professional interstate players to bring their skills to the NT after their southern seasons conclude. This influx of talent, including well-known players like Danielle Ponter from the Adelaide Crows, has elevated the game in the territory and enhanced the women’s league’s quality.
## Rising Talent and Exciting Prospects
Jasmyn Hewett, a former AFLW premiership player and current assistant coach of the PINT Football Club’s women’s premier league team in Darwin, emphasized the allure of the Northern Territory for female players nationwide. She highlighted the exposure and opportunities the NTFL provides, with AFLW clubs closely monitoring the talent on display during the summer months, making it a prime destination for aspiring players seeking visibility.
The NTFL’s women’s premier league boasts nine competitive teams in the current season, fostering a fierce and dynamic environment that differs from the traditional southern football seen on TV. Several NTFL clubs now sponsor female “fly-ins” to enhance competition and raise the overall standard, offering local players the chance to compete against Australia’s top talent.
## A Unique Experience in the Top End
Beyond its competitive edge, women’s football in the Northern Territory has become an integral part of the region’s culture and community. Leah Reilly, vice-president of the Banks Bulldogs Football Club, highlighted the role of football in fostering connections and creating a sense of belonging for newcomers to the NT. Many players, like Anna Bowie, found their passion for the sport after relocating to Darwin, where football serves as a unifying force and a source of joy during the wet season.
As women like Anna embrace the sport and build friendships both on and off the field, the growth of women’s football in the Northern Territory continues to flourish, offering a blend of competition, camaraderie, and personal growth. With each new player stepping onto the field, the spirit of the game thrives, shaping a diverse and vibrant football community in the Top End.