Which clubs are involved?
Adelaide, Brisbane Lions, Carlton, Collingwood, Fremantle, Greater Western Sydney, Melbourne and the Western Bulldogs were confirmed as the eight clubs competing in the first year of the competition on June 15.
Does the league have an official name yet?
On September 15, the AFL announced the competition would be known as AFL Women's. The competition logo was released on September 19.
How many players will be on each list?
Each club will have 25 players, including two marquee players. The marquee players will be announced first, with state-based drafts to be held later this year. The clubs can list priority selection players and will also be able to sign another two rookies who haven’t played football before. The rest of the clubs' lists will be completed at the AFL women’s draft in mid-October. The rest of the clubs' lists will be completed at the AFL women’s draft on October 12. Here is the draft order.
What is the draft process?
Players not selected as marquee players or under the priority listing concessions have nominated for the draft. Players were required to nominate which state they wish to be drafted in, which will allow clubs to select players up to list spot 22. From there, each club will retain three spots on its list that can be filled in a free agency period before October 31.
Who are some of the names to watch?
Kara Donnellan, Daisy Pearce, Tayla Harris, Katie Brennan and Moana Hope are but a handful of players expected to shine.
Will players be required to be full-time professional athletes?
No, players in the national women's league will be part-time athletes with access to the best facilities, coaches and player development programs on offer. The training and match requirements will be planned in advance with every measure possible being put in place to avoid any impact on work or study commitments.
Who will coach the clubs?
All eight clubs have named their coach.
Fremantle: Michelle Cowan
Adelaide Crows: Bec Goddard
Brisbane Lions: Craig Starcevich
Carlton: Damien Keeping
Collingwood: Wayne Siekman
Greater Western Sydney: Tim Schmidt
Melbourne: Michael Stinear
Western Bulldogs: Paul Groves
When and where will games be played?
The first year of competition will be played in February-March 2017, with the final fixture – including the format and the venue of games – still to be confirmed.
Will be players be subject to Match Review Panel and AFL Tribunal rules. Will they be drug-tested?
The AFL and AFLPA are finalising rules and regulations relating to these and other matters. The AFL will release details once they’re locked in.
What will the clubs and players be competing for?
A premiership cup and medals for various awards, including league best and fairest and leading goalkicker. Details are yet to be confirmed.
Will women’s matches be broadcast?
Yes, although the details of the coverage are still being worked through. Some of the games are likely to be broadcast on AFL.com.au and via the AFL Live App.
