THE Wollongong Saints have revealed plans to establish a second team next season, on the back of the success of the AFL women’s competition.
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Unbeaten in the AFL Sydney division one competition, the Saints player numbers have surged to more than 40, resulting in the club establishing a rotational playing roster.
The spike in interest in the Illawarra has led to their own expansion plans, with a view to pushing back into the premier competition next year.
“We’re pretty confident about forming a competitive team in the premier division,” president Casey Moane said.
“We’ve had a number of girls go into the Giants Academy and of course Kate Stanton playing in the national league shows what women and girls in the region can achieve.
“It’s been great to see the club grow to this point.”
The AFL Women’s competition, won by Adelaide, featured sell-out crowds and national television coverage.
The only unbeaten team in division one, Wollongong have scored 429 points while conceding just 53 in five games.
After thumping Campbelltown 16.15 (111) to 0.3 (3) at home, the Saints now tackle the Sydney University Bombers at North Dalton Park on Saturday. The game is also the club’s annual multiple sclerosis fundraiser, with under 15, 17 and a youth exhibition game to be held.
- AFL SYDNEY WOMEN’S
Round six
Saturday (10am)
WOLLONGONG SAINTS v SYDNEY UNIVERSITY BOMBERS
North Dalton Park