WAFC Acknowledges WA Women’s Football League as Historic Foundation of WAFL Women’sFriday, November 8, 2024 - 12:39 PM

The West Australian Football Commission (WAFC) is pleased to announce that the history and achievements of the West Australian Women’s Football League (WAWFL) will now be officially recognised as an integral part of the WAFL Women’s competition. 

Following a recommendation from the WAFC Heritage Committee, the WAFL Women’s competition will be endorsed as the continuation of the WAWFL, ensuring the historical legacy of women’s football in Western Australia is preserved and celebrated.

This decision acknowledges the pivotal role the WAWFL has played since its inception in 1988, aligning past premierships, player milestones, and life memberships under the WAFL Women’s banner. 

Additionally, player, coach, and umpire records from the WAWFL era will carry through, ensuring their contributions are honoured in WAFL Women’s records.

The WAWFL was rebranded in 2019 to WAFL Women’s, and this alignment will see the 2025 WAFL Women’s Premiership counted as the 38th, marking the continuity of women’s football achievements over the decades.

WAFC CEO Michael Roberts said this formal endorsement ensures the legacy of women’s football in WA will be fully preserved and celebrated as the WAFL Women’s competition continues to grow.

“By aligning the WAWFL's legacy with the WAFL Women’s competition, we are acknowledging that the rich history of women’s football lives on and continues to inspire future generations,” Roberts said.

“This decision also ensures that past state games and National Championships, which were pinnacles of achievement during the WAWFL era, will be recognised on par with future competitions.”

WAWFL Life Member and WAFC Heritage Committee member, Danielle Fagents supports the decision, highlighting its significance for women’s football in WA.

“It’s fantastic to see the WAWFL officially recognised as the pioneering women’s football competition in Western Australia," Fagents said.

“This acknowledgment from the WAFC honours the WAWFL’s legacy and ensures its place in the history of women’s football for years to come.

“The incredible work of the pioneering players, coaches, umpires and administrators laid the foundation for future generations and created opportunities that have transformed the landscape of women’s football, and their vision, resilience, and commitment deserve this recognition.”

The WAFC has already made strides to reflect the WAWFL's history on the WAFL website, including the Dhara Kerr Award, the Joanne Huggins Leading Goalkicker Award, the Lou Knitter Medal and other significant honours.