The MPFNL is proud of the continued growth of our Women’s competition and remains fully committed to delivering a respectful and high-quality finals series that reflects the standard, effort and importance of the competition.
In recent days, commentary regarding the 2025 Women’s Finals Series, particularly Week One, has caused unnecessary division. We want to set the record straight.
The league, alongside AFL South East, has worked tirelessly to identify suitable venues that meet the specific requirements for hosting six finals games in one day. This includes access to dual ovals, changerooms, medical facilities, canteen access, and most importantly, a club with the volunteer capacity to deliver.
For transparency, we also note that the fixture for finals was aligned back in February to address previous feedback and avoid overlap of the Women’s Finals with other matches, an intentional effort to maximise opportunities to attend and support the women’s game.
While venues may appear available on Saturdays, they are part of broader multi-sport precincts. With other codes using the facilities and significant volunteer demands, Saturday hosting was not feasible.
Despite consultation with multiple women’s clubs, none were able to host Week One. With limited options, the MPFNL approached Frankston YCW, who generously committed to hosting, despite existing junior fixtures and the challenges that came with it. We thank them, and Tyabb FNC who will host the preliminary finals, for stepping up and actively supporting the women’s competition.
The reality is: these finals cannot happen without willing venues, community volunteers and logistical alignment. It’s not a lack of commitment from the league – it’s a lack of options when no clubs in the competition were prepared to take on hosting duties.
We are disappointed in how this situation has been portrayed publicly. Some commentary on social media has inflamed the issue, misrepresented the facts, and unfairly targeted those who have put their hands up to help. This is not acceptable. We urge all clubs to ensure their members are informed and respectful, and to take ownership for their own decisions, including not nominating to host.
Let us be clear: The same planning, investment and care goes into these finals as any other. We remain proudly committed to working with the MPFNL Women’s Sub-Committee to keep building the profile, visibility and future of the competition – but that requires action, not blame.
We ask our community to get behind this series and those working hard to deliver it.
That’s how progress is made.
MPFNL Board
