AFL chief executive Gillon McLachlan has called for patience with the new women’s league, saying it will need time to develop.
The league was launched on Wednesday morning in Melbourne, with old rivals Carlton and Collingwood to play the first game on Friday.
“I want to be clear – this will be good for business, but, as compelling, it can be explained in two words – equality and aspiration,” McLachlan said.
“It will be football as we’ve always known it … but it will also be very different.
“This group of women players will create their own game.
“I’d like to remind everyone this is year one … I will ask today that we give them time and space to grow into the elite footballers that we know they can be.
“We are here for the long haul … I can guarantee you the AFLW in three years will be vastly different to year one.”
The women’s league premiership cup was unveiled, with Western Bulldogs vice-president Susan Alberti named as its ambassador.
The AFL also announced there would be a best and fairest award for the new league.
The Rising Star, best afield in the grand final and leading goalkicker will also be recognised, plus there will be an All-Australian team after each season.
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