Season uncertainty 'challenging' for AFLW community
Key AFLW stakeholders say they would like to see more certainty about their fixture and important dates, which they say would help with performance and getting more fans to games.
The 2026 men's AFL season is ongoing, but the AFLW season's final date was only revealed 13 weeks before the start of round three. Key dates for the men's season are announced with more advance notice, allowing clubs and players to plan their off-season breaks effectively. Lauren Arnell, a former AFLW player and senior coach, believes more certainty in scheduling would help clubs and players optimize their preseason training and team preparations.
The AFLW grand final is set for November 27, 2026, whereas men's grand finals typically occur in late September or early October. The lack of certainty in AFLW's fixture date can make it difficult for players to inform employers and plan personal activities. The NRL, on the other hand, announced its 2026 fixture schedule well in advance, providing NRLW clubs with 230 days to prepare for their season.
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