AFL Women’s is a place for all.

It celebrates diversity and it embraces people for exactly who they are.

From the grassroots level to the elite, women’s footy has been built on this foundation. Its origins run deep.

This weekend will see the AFL Women’s community embark on the first competition-wide Pride Round.

There will be smiles and there will be colour, but it’s more than just a few games of footy.

The round encompasses just how important AFLW is for the LGBTIQ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex, queer/questioning) community.

Just ask Katie Purvis.

As co-convenor of the Ruby Demons, an inclusive group for all LGBTIQ Melbourne supporters, Katie is as passionate as they come.

She’s a diehard Dees fan and a true supporter of the AFL Women’s competition. She’s also a key driver of the Ruby Demons, and the work they do in providing a safe space for fellow members.

Since 2016, the Ruby Demons have been embracing people of diverse sexualities, genders and cultural backgrounds.

They’ve been out, loud and proud at events, whether that be Melbourne games or the annual Pride March in St Kilda.

They’ve educated others on homophobic language and behaviour, and extended support to those who want to belong. 

And they’ve cheered for their beloved Demons, without judgement.

“We offer club members and supporters the chance to enjoy football in a non-threatening environment,” Katie told Melbourne Media.

“Our aim is to provide an inclusive LGBTIQ supporter group that welcomes and embraces people.

“We are also proud members of the AFL Pride Collective, which is comprised of similar LGBTIQ supporter groups at most other AFL clubs, and seeks to represent all queer AFL fans.”

Ruby Demons co-founder Nathan Miller is equally as spirited, both about the group and its place within the game.

And for him, inclusivity is key.

“It’s about feeling like we belong as part of the broader AFL community,” he told Melbourne Media.

“We know so many of our gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender friends love footy and enjoy going to games.

“It is easier to do that in a group, where we can feel less threatened by homophobic language and behaviours that are sometimes witnessed from supporters, players and others.”

This weekend’s matches will see umpires wearing rainbow sweatbands, goal umpires using rainbow flags instead of traditional white ones, and rainbow markings on the ground.

The theming will be echoed by fans from near and far, who have an opportunity to celebrate the occasion, inclusivity, diversity, and acceptance.

And with their banner, big rainbow flag and customised T-shirts in tow, celebrate is exactly what the Ruby Demons plan to do.  

“Pride Round represents recognition and acceptance of the rainbow community,” Katie said.

“It’s significant because for most of the long history of AFL, we have been shut out, ignored, abused and/or made to feel unsafe in a football crowd.

“Now, the competition is making us feel welcome, valued and included.”

Melbourne will host Richmond this Saturday as part of Pride Round, with both teams wearing rainbow socks to mark the occasion.

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT THE RUBY DEMONS