Alarming dropout rate and current market gap to be addressed through new junior girls footy program next month

A new footy program designed to keep girls in the game is set to land in Geraldton next month, and is now taking expressions of interest. The modified pre-season program aims to retain girls’ interest in Aussie Rules as they progress out of under 16s and into women’s footy. Mid West regional football specialist Jayden Schofield said it addressed a huge gap in Geraldton’s existing football market. “Girls are leaving footy and we don’t want them to leave, so why not have a little fun to keep them interested,” he said. “The main aim with this competition is to express themselves, come have a run, play with girls they might not have played with or met before, make new friendships. “We’re not going to keep scores, have a ladder or winners and losers. It’s about just having fun and having a go to keep girls in the game and grow their love for footy. “The game is super super chill. It’s going to be competitive when you’re playing, but it’s fun.” Currently, GNJFL’s girls program finishes at under 16s level, with no organised in-season competition for colts-aged girls, meaning those 16-year-olds need to transition into women’s footy. Schofield said he found 48 girls in the Year 10-12 age group left the sport entirely between 2024 and 2025, which he found “alarming”. “They’re leaving because they’re not physically ready, not sure where they fit and their friends aren’t going to women’s footy so they drop off as well,” he said. “It benefits everyone if girls are playing footy because it makes our competition stronger. Everyone I’ve spoken to has been all in on this.” The competition will run similarly to AFL-9s — shorter games, with smaller teams and fields, with pre-game coaching sessions held, allowing girls to refine skills before going into game play. To further entice participation, the program is free, with sponsors Bendigo Bank covering all expenses including registration fees, uniforms and equipment. Schofield hopes to have 40 players register for next month’s competition. Schofield said the buy-in from the GNFL, especially the women’s competition, has been “unreal” and helps girls visualise a place for them in footy. “If a Year 10 girl can see what the GNFL women are doing, that might make them strive to be better and stay in the game,” he said. “It’s about role models and seeing that vision for young girls. If we can build that culture and having girls look up to other girls in our community, I can’t see how that wouldn’t be a benefit to everyone.” To express your interest, contact Schofield at jschofield@wafootball.com.au or on 0403 238 664 for more information.