AFLW players will no longer be required to wear white shorts during games, as the competition aims to reduce anxiety around menstruation.
The decision marks a break from tradition within the AFL that has seen “away” teams wear white shorts on-field. It comes after a period of extensive consultation with clubs and players and research that shows discomfort in uniforms can be a major barrier for women and girls participating in sport at any level.
Players across the VFLW, Under-18 Championships and any AFL-managed women and girls talent pathways will also ditch white shorts.
“This is a pinnacle moment in the AFL’s history, creating a uniform policy that reflects the modern needs of female athletes,” said Laura Kane, AFL General Manager of Competitions.
“There has been a movement in women’s sport globally to address athlete anxieties around wearing white shorts or pants during menstrual cycles. We have listened to our players and industry experts and created a best-practice policy to ensure we are removing any participation or performance barriers.”
All 18 AFLW clubs will wear their regular coloured shorts for home matches and will now have the option to have an extra set of coloured shorts to be worn when necessary. The changes will begin from the start of the 2023 season.
The AFL will work to ensure there are no colour clashes between teams each week.
AFL General Manager of Women’s Football Nicole Livingstone said the call to no longer wear white shorts was a step forward for women’s sport.
“I’m proud of the position the AFL has taken with this decision and thank our players for their leadership and passion. Whilst this is a policy change for women and girls in AFL-run competitions, the ripple effect for community sport for women and girls is immense – we want to lead to remove any barriers that prevent women and girls participating in Australian Football,” Livingstone said.
“Australian Football has progressed since the introduction of AFLW, and this change of policy showcases the commitment to the integration of women’s football and its unique needs.”
The AFLW’s departure from white shorts follows similar moves from other sporting codes internationally, including in football, where UK club West Bromwich Albion has ditched white shorts in favour of navy, to relieve anxiety that comes with menstruation.