WA Football celebrates record-breaking 90k participation figure

Western Australia’s participation numbers have broken through the 90,000 barrier for the first time ever in a history-making result for footy in the State.

More West Aussies are playing Australian Rules than ever before, with 90,017 overall participants across community football (junior, youth and senior), AFL Nines, NAB AFL Auskick, NAB AFL Superkick and AFL Schools Competitions, up from 87,155 in 2024.

The record-breaking growth in women and girls’ areas has been a driving force behind the encouraging rise, with an eight per cent increase year-on-year to 17,238.

NAB AFL Superkick, touted as the ‘older sibling’ of NAB AFL Auskick, has seen a huge increase in popularity, jumping 57 per cent from last year to 2062 participants.

WA Football CEO Michael Roberts was proud of this year’s ground-breaking participation achievements as football remains the game for all Western Australians.

“To break through the 90,000 mark for the first time is an outstanding achievement from everyone involved – from players to coaches, umpires, volunteers and parents,” WA Football CEO Michael Roberts said.

“We’re delighted that we continue to set the benchmark as the game for all Western Australians.

“There’s been some amazing highlights along the way – from Women and Girl’s participation numbers jumping eight per cent this year and Superkick rising a whopping 57 per cent.

“We look forward to building on these remarkable achievements in the New Year as we gear up for an exciting 2026.”

It comes as Aussie Rules Footy has reaffirmed its place as Australia’s game, with national participation reaching a record-breaking 625,000 participants in 2025.

Breaking the previous all-time record of 580,000 set last year, participation has grown by seven per cent year-on-year, with more Australians than ever lacing up their boots.

AFL Executive General Manager of Game Development, Rob Auld, said the record numbers reflect both the strength of the game and the deepening connection Australians continue to build with footy.

“Reaching 625,000 participants this year is a remarkable achievement and a powerful reminder of how footy continues to bring communities together across the country,” Auld said.

“As more Australians find their pathway into the game, our focus remains on making sure footy is welcoming, inclusive and accessible as we strive to have one million participants by 2033.

“Encouraging people to find their way to play – whether it’s through NAB AFL Auskick, NAB AFL Superkick, community football or AFL Nines – sits at the heart of that vision, driven by the 10 per cent enshrined investment into Game Development that supports programs and participation across all levels of the game.

“To sustain the game for generations to come, we need a strong foundation. These results are driven by the thousands of people who give their time, energy and passion to footy every week.

“We know there are challenges in local footy and there is still work that needs to be done to help clubs; but to our clubs, coaches, umpires, volunteers and parents who make all of this possible, thank you and we’re incredibly grateful for everything you do.”

To find out how to play and connect with Australian football in WA or to find your nearest club, visit the WA Football website