AFL MASTERS
In line with the rise in girls and women playing football, Geelong AFL Masters has put the call out for women over 35 who wish to get on the field.
The club is hoping to field its first women’s team in 2027 following the growing success of its men’s program.
Club president Paul Collis said that masters football provides a safe and social playing outlet for individuals who may not feel comfortable playing in traditional leagues anymore.
“We don’t want to be the only ones out there having fun and enjoying ourselves in our twilight years,” Collis said.
“The women can get as much enjoyment out of the game as we do, so why not provide the opportunity for them to play as well.”
Early interest has been positive with Collis saying the club had about 30 expressions of interest already.
If enough players put their hand up, he said the club would investigate the viability of two teams.
Players of all skill levels are welcomed, including those who are wishing to move on from open competition and people who have never played before.
Collis said more important than the game itself is the physical and mental benefits the men already involved in the club have experienced.
“Everyone’s on the same page,” he said. “We all just want to keep our bodies going, keep our minds going and still be sociable.
“You’re still competitive, we’re competitive by nature, but at the same time we’re polite and you help people get up and you have a drink with them after the game.”
There are nearly 10,000 people in 300 teams across Australia now playing masters football, with divisions for different age groups and levels of contact.
Geelong Masters train Wednesdays at 5.30pm at Frier Reserve, Newtown.
Interested players are welcome to attend training.
Further details about getting involved can be found on the Geelong Masters website.