The AFL's stubborn refusal to move an international women's game to the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) has sparked a heated debate, with many questioning their commitment to supporting women's football. This decision, in the face of widespread criticism, has led to a missed opportunity to showcase the sport's potential and has drawn comparisons to the NRL's more supportive approach.
A Missed Opportunity for Growth
In my opinion, the AFL's stance is a missed opportunity. The women's game has shown tremendous growth and popularity, as evidenced by the 53,000 fans who attended the 2019 AFLW grand final. By choosing a smaller venue, the AFL is limiting the potential reach and impact of this historic international clash. The SCG, with its capacity of 48,000, could have been a powerful platform to further elevate the sport and engage a broader audience.
The NRL's Supportive Approach
What makes this situation particularly interesting is the contrast with the NRL. The NRL has shown a strong commitment to its women's program, providing a platform for players to be part of significant moments. This is a stark contrast to the AFL's approach, which has been criticized for its lack of support and strategic thinking. The NRL's willingness to embrace and promote women's football is a lesson the AFL could learn from.
Strategic Thinking and Prestige
If you take a step back and think about it, the AFL's decision to stick with North Sydney Oval seems short-sighted. There are no AFL games scheduled in Sydney on the weekend of August 1, leaving the larger venues free. This presents an opportunity to create a prestigious event and showcase the sport's potential. By choosing a smaller venue, the AFL is missing out on the chance to create a memorable experience and potentially attract new fans.
The Role of Media and Engagement
One thing that immediately stands out is the AFL's response to the criticism. Instead of addressing the concerns directly, they opted to advertise a list of pubs where fans could watch the game. This approach feels like a deflection and a lack of strategic engagement. A more proactive strategy could have been to use this moment as an opportunity to further promote the women's game and engage with the community.
Conclusion: A Call for Change
In conclusion, the AFL's refusal to move the international women's game to the SCG is a missed opportunity for growth and engagement. It highlights a need for the league to re-evaluate its approach to women's football and learn from the NRL's supportive model. By embracing change and taking a more proactive stance, the AFL can create a more inclusive and successful women's competition.
