The AFL is pleased to announce a new record for participation in 2015.
Total participation grew to 1,247,610 nationally this year, representing an 8 per cent rise on figures released in 2014.
An additional 2,013,172 people were engaged through school or community based clinics and promotions, which is a growth of 33 per cent from 1,500,000 in 2014.
The results were announced at a football clinic at Wesley College this morning with NAB AFL Auskick Ambassador Shane Crawford and Melbourne Football Club Women’s captain Daisy Pearce on hand to discuss 2015 highlights, including a 46 per cent rise in female participation.
AFL General Manager of Game and Market Development Simon Lethlean said the record result was a reflection on the hard work and commitment of volunteers at community clubs and leagues, coaches, teachers and AFL staff across the country.
“Our game is blessed to have so many dedicated volunteers, from NAB AFL Auskick through to junior and senior competitions, who introduce our game to people of all ages and help them fall in love with the sport,” Lethlean said.
“Australian Football is the greatest game in the world and the industry as a whole has made a considerable effort to make sure it is a safe, inclusive and fun environment that provides opportunities for everyone, regardless of their background, gender or ability.”
“Along with the coaches, teachers, administrators and volunteers, I must also thank the AFL staff – based both at head office, and our state-based bodies and out in the community, for their work in creating and delivering innovative programs that encourage participation.”
Lethlean said the continued growth in female participation, which climbed to 284,501, was particularly pleasing.
“The record growth in female football follows the success of the two AFL Women’s exhibition matches this year, the second of which was televised live across Australia, and reinforces the need to establish a national female competition,” he said.
2015 Highlights
Total Participation grew by 8 per cent to reach 1,247,610
- 597,538 played in structured competitions (up 3.5 per cent)
- 650,072 participated in introductory programs (up 13 per cent)
Community Club participation grew by 1.4 per cent to 336,108
- Strong growth in junior (4 per cent) and youth girls (33 per cent) football
- There are now 253 leagues, 2,763 Clubs and 13,873 community club teams nationally – with 226 new teams taking the field in 2015
A total of 239,144 students played in school competitions, with another 467,145 involved in introductory programs, representing an crease of 13 per cent.
- 8.3 per cent growth in primary aged inter-school football competitions
- 1.3 per cent growth in secondary inter-school football
- 17.7 per cent growth in school program participation
NAB AFL Auskick participation grew by 2.5 per cent to 182,927
- The increase was largely driven by an increase in 5-8 year olds who now make up 85 per cent of the program demographic (was 65 per cent five years ago)
A total of 22,286 people played in a McDonalds AFL 9s competition on the back of 23.5 per cent growth.
- 15 new venues established in 2015
Female participation has reached 284,501 (up 46 per cent)
- Female participation now makes up 22 per cent of all participants (up from 19 per cent in 2014)
163 new female football teams were established in 2015
