The Brisbane Lions have created history by being granted one of the inaugural licences for the AFL National Women’s League Season.
The Lions will fly the flag for Queensland as the only side from the Sunshine State after the successful teams were announced today at the MCG.
The Lions’ successful bid was based around the theme of “GAME CHANGER”, focused on how the Club’s commitment to a women’s team would change the face of women’s sport across the state and nation.
An image of the 'GAME CHANGER' application document that was submitted by the Lions to the AFL.
The Club already has the commitment of young star Tayla Harris – one of the most exciting players in the women’s game – to play for the Lions in the 2017 season.
The Queenslander is currently listed with Zillmere in the QWAFL and has played three AFL Women’s Exhibition Games for the Melbourne Football Club, debuting in 2014 when she was 17.
As well as being the Club’s marquee player, Harris will also take on a full time role at the Lions, driving female participation in her role as the Communications and Community Coordinator.
The Lions’ team will be coached by the vastly experienced Craig Starcevich – AFL Queensland’s current Female Football High Performance Manager – while an announcement on a Women’s CEO will be made by the Club in coming days.
Lions CEO Greg Swann said winning an inaugural licence for the AFL National Women’s League Season was a great day for everyone at the Club.
“We are incredibly proud to be part of such a huge day in footy history,” said Swann.
“Women play a massive role in our code, and across our State – we saw it as an absolute must that our Club have a women’s team from the start.
“There is so much talent across Queensland, we are really excited to get to work on developing a team that will do us proud in this great new national competition.”
Harris said: "I hope women’s footy gets some momentum from this year onwards and the people really get behind the competition.
"There are so many girls who have worked so hard to get this opportunity, it will be good to be able to showcase our skills & reward the effort that we’ve put in"
Lions members and fans can get all the latest news on the Women’s Team at a special hub on lions.com.au from today.
