Former AFL player Dale Thomas, who played 258 matches for Collingwood and Carlton, recently discussed the impact of the AFL Women’s (AFLW) competition from the perspective of a “girl-dad.” Thomas, who has a young daughter, emphasized how the growth of AFLW has opened up new opportunities for young girls, allowing them to see football as a viable pathway and dream. He believes that moments like the season opener between the Swans and Pies can ignite a passion for the sport in young girls.
Thomas also talked about the injury challenges in AFLW, noting that while the players’ intent is commendable, there often needs to be more focus on technique during high-impact moments. However, with more contact hours at clubs and training sessions incorporating techniques like jiu-jitsu, there is optimism for improvement in tackling skills, especially among the next generation of players who have grown up with structured training from a young age.
Additionally, Thomas offered advice to aspiring footballers, emphasizing the importance of getting comfortable with the football as an extension of oneself from an early age. His co-hosts, AFLW players Sarah Hosking and Sarah Rowe, also shared their excitement for the 2024 AFLW season and the growth of the competition.