HISTORY was made at the MCG on Monday night when Melbourne held its first ever jumper presentation for the club’s inaugural AFL Women’s team.

Hosted in the Jim Stynes Room, players were presented with their jumpers by seven-time world surfing champion Layne Beachley and men’s captain Nathan Jones.

Beachley said she was “excited” to finally see the NAB AFL Women’s Competition become a reality and to throw her support behind Melbourne.

“It’s important that you celebrate these moments because it anchors them in your memories,” she said.

“I’m grateful to the Melbourne Football Club, as well as the AFL, for backing these girls.”

Widely regarded as the most successful female surfer in history, Beachley encouraged the players to embrace every opportunity.

“These girls are trailblazers and pioneers and they’re changing the face of sport,” she said.


Layne Beachley shows off her very own Melbourne womens jumper (Photo Matthew Goodrope)

“We see how hard you are working and we see how much you want this and we all support you.

“Use the critics and naysayers to fuel your inspiration to prove them wrong and never give up.”

Despite going down to Carlton by 43 points in a practice match at Ikon Park on Saturday, senior coach Mick Stinear said there were plenty of positives for the players to draw from the experience.

“The team has been tracking really well but we probably just lacked a bit of confidence to play the way we wanted [on Saturday],” he told the room.

“We’re pleased with where we are at the moment so stick with us.”

Stinear said the quality and strength of character within the playing group would put the team in good stead moving forward.

“Our key point of difference [from the competition] is our people.

“Character was a key pillar in our recruiting process and you won’t find another club in the league with more spirit and unique passion.”