AFL women’s league is almost here but this is only the beginning for women’s sport

EXCITEMENT is building for the 2017 AFL women’s league but while it’s huge for women’s sport, it’s only the beginning, writes Katie Brennan.

Katie Brennan celebrates a goal against Melbourne at Etihad Stadium.

SO 2016 is over and as I sit in my old grass tennis court where my brother, Paul, and I spent most of our childhood kicking the footy, it’s a good time to reflect on the journey so far.

The court is where it started — it was our MCG. The leaves were our fans, the fence posts were our goals and our family dog, Koby, kept us on our toes as quick and nimble opposition.

This special place was also where my dream to play in the AFL was born.

Fast-forward 15 years to 2016 and we’re into the first preseason for the inaugural AFLW’s competition kicking off in 2017. It’s a big deal. The competition is a realisation of the dreams of past generations, a fantastic opportunity for 216 female athletes, coaching and support staff, clubs, administration and, most importantly, an inspiration to future generations.

I’d be lying if I said winning the first AFLW premiership with the Western Bulldogs wasn’t at the top of my list for this year. After all, that’s the ultimate prize.

As a collective, we have had an exceptional preseason so far and I believe we have the list and the culture to tackle whatever challenges come our way.

I often stop in awe as I watch our powerhouse midfield lineup receive from our backs and work the ball through for our zippy and skilful small forwards to pounce. With the likes of Blackburn, Kearney, Lochland, Lambert and Scott, just to name a few, us forwards are thrilled about the supply and delivery coming our way.

It’s an exciting process to watch and even more exciting to be a part of — and we’re confident Melburnians will feel the excitement building around the entire league.

Katie Brennan (left) in a women's exhibition match against Western Australia.

Individually, I’m hoping for my biggest season yet and it’s important to set high expectations for myself.

It’s been incredible to be involved in a true AFL program and have access to elite facilities and elite coaching staff.

I have been challenged more than ever before, both physically and mentally, and have learnt to be comfortable with uncomfortable. I’m sure that’s true for the rest of the players as well.

The thought of having markers of our performance such as statistics, GPS analysis and vision to analyse our games motivates me and I am determined to work on my weaknesses and make my strengths stronger. I look forward to playing my role for the team and being a part of something great at the Western Bulldogs.

This AFLW competition is not only the start of something great for us as female footballers, but it’s another step in the right direction for women’s sport and for women in general.

I can’t tell you how proud I am to be a small part of such a big movement.

As a playing group and as a football club we have had overwhelming support from sponsors, supporters and the wider public about the significance of this league and how it means so much to so many people.

So as we look forward to the first game, here’s to the Sue Albertis, the Debbie Lees, the Josh Vanderloos and so many others who have worked to make this league what it is today.

This is only the beginning. Bring on this historic year.

Katie Brennan will be a marquee player for the Western Bulldogs in the inaugural AFL women’s League

@Katie_Brennan16