Interest in the inaugural NAB AFL Women's competition continues to exceed expectations in the weeks leading into round one.
More than 1000 people have signed on as a member of Fremantle’s AFLW team, as the side generates sustained interest in the WA press and on social media.
The news comes the day after the AFL made the call to change the venue of the season opener between Carlton and Collingwood, due to higher than expected interest.
Fremantle’s first two AFLW home games at Fremantle Oval will be free entry, starting with the home opener on Sunday 12 February against Brisbane.
To head coach Michelle Cowan, the excitement surrounding the league has come as no surprise.
“It’s fantastic, I knew the uptake would be there and I know it’s only going to continue to grow,” Cowan said.
“I love that we’ve got the support and it’s been incredible to see fans at training and sending messages to the group, and we’re looking forward to giving them some great entertainment over the coming months.”
Interest in the side has led to strong a demand for AFLW merchandise, with fans rushing in to be among the first to get their hands on Freo’s new women’s guernsey.
Taite Lantzke was one of these members, making her purchase just an hour after the jumper hit the shelves.
“I’ve been waiting for a while for this,” said Lantzke of her new guernsey.
“It’s awesome. The fabric’s different to the men’s so it’s a nice fit for us, and it looks good too.”
Taite gives Freo's new jumper two thumbs up
When asked about her favourite players, Taite gave an eclectic mix that is representative of the new league naming an Australian Olympian, a former professional basketball player and a former netballer among her favourites.
“I have so many favourites, but it’s probably between Kim Mickle, Gemma Houghton and Kirby Bentley,” Taite said.
“I’ve got a few. It’s been really exciting to see people coming from other sports, obviously Kim’s an Olympian so it’s amazing to see her out there.”
