The AFL Women’s (AFLW) league has quickly grown into a cornerstone of Australian sport, captivating fans with its thrilling gameplay, inspiring athletes, and vibrant community spirit. A question that often sparks curiosity is: What is the average attendance for AFLW games? Attendance figures are not just numbers—they reflect the league’s popularity, cultural impact, and potential for growth.
In this article, we’ll explore AFLW attendance trends, factors influencing these numbers, and what they tell us about the league’s future.
Understanding AFLW Attendance Trends
Since its launch in 2017, AFLW has attracted both loyal AFL supporters and new fans eager to witness the rise of women’s Australian rules football. Attendance figures have been a key metric for gauging the league’s success, showcasing its ability to draw crowds to stadiums across the country.
Average Attendance by Season
AFLW’s average attendance has fluctuated over the years, influenced by factors such as venue size, match scheduling, and external circumstances like the COVID-19 pandemic. Here’s a breakdown of average attendance figures by season:
- 2017 (Inaugural Season): Approximately 6,500 fans per game.
- 2018: A slight dip to 5,200 per game, partly due to expanded fixtures and smaller venues.
- 2019: A resurgence, with 6,300 per game, boosted by marquee matches and growing interest.
- 2020: Attendance averaged around 6,200, before COVID-19 restrictions disrupted the season.
- 2021: Pandemic impacts led to limited crowds, with averages hovering around 3,000 in some areas.
- 2022: Attendance rebounded to around 5,000 per game, reflecting a steady recovery.
While these averages may seem modest compared to the AFL (men’s), they highlight the AFLW’s growing traction in a competitive sporting landscape.
Factors Influencing AFLW Attendance
Several factors contribute to the attendance figures for AFLW games, shaping how and when fans engage with the league.
1. Venue Capacity and Location
AFLW games are often held at community-level or suburban grounds, which foster an intimate atmosphere but have limited capacity. Iconic venues like Marvel Stadium or Adelaide Oval, when used, can draw larger crowds for marquee games or finals.
2. Scheduling and Accessibility
The AFLW season runs during summer (January to April or August to November, depending on the year). While this avoids direct competition with the AFL, it overlaps with other sports like cricket and tennis, impacting attendance.
Scheduling matches on weekends or public holidays generally boosts crowd numbers, as families and casual fans find it easier to attend.
3. Ticket Pricing
AFLW games are known for their affordability, with many matches offering free or low-cost entry. This accessibility has been key to attracting families and first-time attendees.
4. Community Engagement
Grassroots initiatives and community outreach programs help drive local support. AFLW clubs actively engage with schools, junior leagues, and local communities, fostering a loyal fan base.
5. Cultural and Social Impact
The AFLW has become a symbol of progress in gender equality and inclusivity. Events like the Indigenous Round and Pride Round resonate deeply with fans, drawing larger and more diverse crowds.
Record-Breaking Moments in AFLW Attendance
While the average attendance provides a snapshot of the league’s performance, individual games have delivered extraordinary moments:
- 2019 AFLW Grand Final (Adelaide Oval): A record-breaking 53,034 fans attended to watch the Adelaide Crows defeat Carlton. This remains the largest crowd for any women’s sporting event in Australia.
- Inaugural Match (2017): The first AFLW game between Carlton and Collingwood at Ikon Park drew 24,568 fans, setting the tone for the league’s success.
How Does AFLW Attendance Compare to Other Sports?
AFLW attendance figures stack up impressively against other women’s leagues globally:
- WNBA (USA): Averages around 4,000–5,000 fans per game, similar to AFLW.
- FA Women’s Super League (UK): Attendance ranges from 1,000 to 3,000 for regular matches, though marquee games can exceed 20,000.
- Women’s Big Bash League (Australia): Crowds average 2,000–4,000, with marquee games drawing larger numbers.
These comparisons show that AFLW is not just competitive but often leads in fan engagement, particularly for domestic women’s leagues.
The Role of Broadcasts in Expanding Reach
While stadium attendance is one measure of success, the AFLW’s growing television and streaming audience highlights its broader appeal. Key developments include:
- Free-to-Air Broadcasts: Games aired on Channel 7 have brought AFLW into millions of homes.
- Streaming Platforms: Fans can watch live games via Kayo Sports and the AFLW App, making it accessible worldwide.
- Digital Engagement: AFLW content thrives on platforms like Instagram and TikTok, where players connect with fans directly.
The Future of AFLW Attendance
1. Expanding Venues
As AFLW grows, hosting more games at larger stadiums could boost attendance averages. Strategic scheduling of marquee matches at major venues can draw bigger crowds.
2. Professionalization
The ongoing push for full professionalism in AFLW will likely attract more fans. Enhanced player performance, longer seasons, and greater marketing investment are all factors that could increase attendance.
3. Enhanced Fan Experience
Innovations like themed rounds, halftime entertainment, and family-friendly activities can make attending AFLW games even more appealing.
4. Breaking Barriers
The AFLW has already shattered records and stereotypes. With continued investment and community support, there’s potential for average attendance figures to rise significantly in the coming years.
Conclusion: A League on the Rise
So, what is the average attendance for AFLW games? While it currently sits around 5,000–6,000 fans per game, the league’s impact goes far beyond these numbers. AFLW is building a strong and sustainable foundation, proving that women’s sport has a rightful place in the hearts of fans.
As AFLW continues to grow, every ticket purchased, cheer shared, and game watched contributes to a larger movement. Whether you’re a lifelong supporter or new to the league, attending an AFLW game is an experience like no other.
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Have you attended an AFLW game? Share your favorite moments or thoughts in the comments below! Stay updated on upcoming matches and support the league by visiting the AFLW official website.
See Also: Is AFLW semi-professional?