Football in Western Australia has kicked a monumental goal, with participation numbers soaring to an unprecedented high in 2025. The driving force behind this historic achievement is the rapid and sustained growth in women and girls embracing the game.
Record Numbers and Female-Led Growth
A staggering total of 90,017 people played football across the state this year, smashing previous records. This marks a significant rise from the 87,155 participants recorded in 2024. The most compelling story within these figures is the explosive growth in female engagement. The number of women and girls pulling on boots jumped by eight per cent year-on-year, reaching 17,238 participants.
Superkick Program Bridges Crucial Gap
Another major contributor to the statewide boom has been the roaring success of the AFL Superkick program. Designed to bridge the critical transition between Auskick and junior football, the initiative saw a phenomenal 57 per cent increase in participation since its launch in 2023. This program is clearly meeting a vital need in the player pathway, ensuring young talents remain engaged with the sport.
WA Football chief executive Michael Roberts hailed the collective effort behind the milestone. “To break through the 90,000 mark for the first time is an outstanding achievement from everyone involved,” Roberts said. He emphasised the sport's inclusive appeal, stating, “We’re delighted that we continue to set the benchmark as the game for all Western Australians.” The organisation is now focused on building on this momentum for an exciting 2026 season.
A National Footy Phenomenon
The wave of growth is not confined to the west. Nationally, football participation surged from 580,000 people in 2024 to 625,000 this year, representing a healthy seven per cent increase across the country.
AFL executive general manager of game development Rob Auld described the national results as a “remarkable achievement and a powerful reminder of how footy continues to bring communities together across the country.” He paid tribute to the grassroots network, noting that the strong foundation is built by “the thousands of people who give their time, energy and passion to footy every week.” While acknowledging ongoing challenges at the local club level, Auld expressed immense gratitude to the volunteers, coaches, umpires, and parents who make the game possible.
With a record-breaking base of participants and targeted programs flourishing, the future of Australian rules football in Western Australia looks brighter than ever.
