PROFESSIONAL FOOTBALLERS THE GAME. BUILDING PLAYERS. THE SUPPORTING by theCarbonReduction Institute(CRI). The PFA is aNoCO2businesscertified Cover photo: GettyImages Torres Strait Islanderpeoples. educational practices ofAboriginaland the continuationofcultural, spiritualand Custodians andEldersofthisnation to the past, present and future Traditional The PFA acknowledgesandpays respect www.pfa.net.au 1300 650497/[email protected] West MelbourneVIC3003 2/55 Walsh Street Professional Footballers Australia CERTIFICATION #NC426 02

PROFESSIONAL FOOTBALLERS AUSTRALIA / W-LEAGUE REPORT 2020/21 CO-CHIEF EXECUTIVES & BEAU BUSCH KATHRYN GILL FOREWORD W-LEAGUE this report, players within the 18-24 age bracket bracket age 18-24 the within players report, this within outlined trends emerging of arange Among vided exciting matches and compelling storylines. pro W-League the distraction, outside and adversity of face the in and, future, the of stars the by delivered was hope of abeacon uncertainty, of a season In altogether. league women’s the of cancellation the landscape; impacted aCOVID-19 in outcome uncommon, not although radical, amore prevented league the across determination collective the Fortunately, ongoing scheduling disruptions. delivered restrictions travel and matches postponed lockdowns, snap as applauded, widely was istration admin League’s the of that and efforts players’ The April. of week second the in Victory by won was February, in played typically Final, Grand the while – time first the for A-League the with ously simultane off kicking – 2020 December of days final the to November from shifted window season The COVID-19. of uncertainty the with grappled league the as schedules players’ and clubs’ with havoc played pandemic the time, same the At home. W-League the called once who stars of ahost for enticing too proved again hemisphere northern the in football club of pull magnetic The for countless reasons. unprecedented was season W-League 2020/21 The enjoyed a 38% increase in minutes, halting halting minutes, in increase a38% enjoyed the previous decline within that cohort, as as cohort, that within decline previous the evidenced over the last three W-League W-League three last the over evidenced seasons. That alone is cause for relief, relief, for cause is alone That seasons. as increasing match minutes for our our for minutes match increasing as - - - solutions can regenerate the W-League. the regenerate can solutions viable several easy, is problems identifying While partner. broadcast a multi-million-dollar and secured popularity and interest in ahead surged has League Super FA Women’s –the Matildas the for destination new –the England In skyrocketed. has football women’s European in Investment behind. fallen also has position W-League’s the context, a global In 14 to teams. eight from expanded rapidly AFLW, the one, and – years five past the in professional have leagues materialised in Australia female new five nothing; from emerged or ened strength have sports other vacuum, strategic this In professionals. female for order pecking global and local the down slipping is W-League the where a time at unveiled, been have plans expansion or teams new –no ago years 2015 –six in competition the entered City Melbourne Since stagnated. largely has that design acompetition inheriting are owners club The independence. of era new in a first the be will where the opportunities lie for next season, which –and operation Australia’s Football under seasons 13 after to progressed has W-League the where of synopsis atimely provides report this Importantly, disappeared. but all have revenues match-day where environment an in situation nancial fi precarious clubs’ the reflects league the across payments player in a14% decrease Simultaneously, stability. and quality squad impacted likely migration global in hiatus the by caused rosters W-League on players foreign in decrease a46% However, stage. international the on ness competitive our to critical remains players emerging adversity and outside distraction, the W-League provided W-League the provided distraction, outside and adversity delivered by the stars of the future, and, in the face of the in and, future, of the bystars the delivered - In a season of uncertainty, a beacon of hope was was of hope a beacon of a season uncertainty, In - - exciting matches and compelling storylines. compelling and matches exciting the path to success. future and face competition the and players the challenges the season, unprecedented this of uniqueness the comprehend can better tralian football community Aus the and players hope we report, this Through now. is W-League the footballfoundational and player legacy base through a build and W-League the transform to time The footballers. our for competition sporting premier the as W-League the re-establish we ensure to –opportunity other no rather, –or better no is there horizon, the on event game-changing that With Cup. World Women’s FIFA 2023 the of opportunity transformational and inspirational the of reminder a need community football Australian the in Few design evolves. competition the as compromised be can’t and vance ad to continue must remuneration minimum players’ and standards Workplace regression. of expense the at come cannot areas new in progress Importantly, players. professional our for considered be to needs sition propo footballing 12-month agenuine addition, In process. this to critical is Expansion players. the of careers the and League the of professionalism the legitimise and equivalents overseas our with pace keep can that acompetition deliver to required is but logical only not is season away and home A full - - - 03

PROFESSIONAL FOOTBALLERS AUSTRALIA / W-LEAGUE REPORT 2020/21 CONTENTS 06 SUMMARY EXECUTIVE of Matildas The ‘GoldenGeneration’ 10 Generation Next 08 CONTEXT STRATEGIC Executive Summary League Comparison 18 Squad Profile 17 Match Minutes 16 Foreign Players 15 Player Analysis 14 Player Payments 13 Snapshot 12 FRAMEWORK EMPLOYMENT ASSESSMENT LEAGUE Attendance 23 Broadcast 22 Competitive Balance 21 Snapshot 20 Club Integration 25 Pitch Ratings 24 Refereeing Possession & 29 Passing &Defending 28 Goals 27 REPORT TECHNICAL REPORT INJURY Injury Location 34 Season Overview 33 Methodology 32 Snapshot 31 Summary 38 SUMMARY REPORT & TransitionCareer 37 Program Engagement 36 DEVELOPMENT PLAYER SURVEY W-LEAGUE STATISTICAL DATA METHODOLOGY football clubs and leagues around the world. the around leagues and clubs football for analysis in-depth and reports data tical mance analysis company, providing statis perfor sports a global is InStat report. this of sections for data performance provide to InStat with partnered has PFA the year This PFA. the Collectivethe Bargaining W-League, and assessments oftion-readiness, their club, transi football, of outside study and work contracts, from careers, players’ impacting areas of range a broad covered survey The playing cohort. the of 75% around survey, the to responded 136 players mid-April, and late-March tween Be season. 2020-21 the of conclusion the at survey online the to alink sent was player W-League Every players. League W- of vey sur annual major our from quotes and data see will you appears, symbol this Where - - - - - 04

PROFESSIONAL FOOTBALLERS AUSTRALIA / W-LEAGUE REPORT 2020/21 SUMMARY EXECUTIVE Executive Summary 05

PROFESSIONAL FOOTBALLERS AUSTRALIA / W-LEAGUE REPORT 2020/21 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY EXECUTIVE SUMMARY EXECUTIVE SUMMARY EXECUTIVE SUMMARY EXECUTIVE SUMMARY EXECUTIVE SUMMARY EXECUTIVE SUMMARY EXECUTIVE SUMMARY EXECUTIVE SUMMARY SUMMARY EXECUTIVE approximately 75% of the playingcohort Number of players who received an Number of playerswhoreceived an Average seasons of experience per to the 2020/21 W-League – survey Number of players who responded Number of players whoresponded Education Grant this season player, up 0.1 from 2019/20 136 4.3 65 W-League, down14 from last season Number of players contracted with Average attendance at home and Number of foreign players in the Number of foreign playersin the W-League clubs in2020/21 away matches this season 1,061 188 23 payments per club this season, down payments perclubthis season, down Matches missed per injury, up 8% on Matches missed per injury,up8% on Percentage of players in their first $354,261 Average spend on total player 14% from last season season at thier club 3.48 43% last season 06

PROFESSIONAL FOOTBALLERS AUSTRALIA / W-LEAGUE REPORT 2020/21 CONTEXT STRATEGIC The ‘Golden Generation’ of Matildas Generation Next 07

PROFESSIONAL FOOTBALLERS AUSTRALIA / W-LEAGUE REPORT 2020/21 STRATEGIC CONTEXT STRATEGIC CONTEXT STRATEGIC CONTEXT STRATEGIC CONTEXT STRATEGIC CONTEXT STRATEGIC CONTEXT STRATEGIC CONTEXT STRATEGIC CONTEXT STRATEGIC CONTEXT NEXT GENERATION to emerge. Players like Adelaide United’s Matilda Matilda United’s Adelaide like Players emerge. to stars of generation next the for door the opened it group, age 25-29 the in played minutes of drop a in resulting competition, the of demographics the changed undoubtedly has seasons recent in Foord Caitlin and Catley Steph Kerr, Sam as such stars established of departure the While and competitiveness. entertainment of standard ahigh maintained but time on just not completed was season the ensured resilience and professionalism players’ protocols, health strict and lockdowns snap multiple schedule, adifficult Despite colours. flying with tests these passed League W- the cases, both In pandemic? COVID-19 the survive league the would how And competition? the from stars high-profile several of departure the survive league the would How season. W-League 2020/21 the of start the at consciousness public the in narratives main two were There 30+ 25-29 18-24 U17 BY AGE GROUP TOTAL MINUTES PLAYED: 100,000 80,000 60,000 44,863 44,181 2019/20 40,000 12,483 20,000 5,368 Minutes Played 0 6,903 have the potential to carry the game forward. game the carry to potential the have that faces new the as themselves cemented who footballers young the of afew just are Cross Cooney- Kyra hero final grand Victory’s bourne Mel and Whyman, Jada FC’s McNamara, 20,000 15,312 24,887 40,000 2020/21 60,000 66,381 80,000 100,000 25-29 18-24 U17 30+ - 16 MINUTES PLAYED: PLAYERS AGED22 AND UNDER WITHOVER 900 2008/09 tell. will time Only come? to years the in Matildas the representing and jerseys fans’ of back the on ones the be guns young season’s this will stars, young many so for campaign abreakout After team. national our of backbone the form now They competition. national our of backbone the form and names household competition’s the become to on go to years teenage their in scene the to on bursting more, many and Gorry, Katrina Catley, Steph Kerr, Sam like players young of aflood with W-League, the for moment awatershed was 2013-2014 in metric this in spike previous The W-League. the of history the in highest third equal and 2014 since threshold that reach to players of number highest the represents That minutes). match available of 83% (around minutes 900 over played under and 22 aged players 24 season. this W-League the in role akey played demographic clearly shows that young talent 18-24 the by played minutes in rise A sharp 18 2009 19 2010/11 18 2011/12 31 2012/13 SEASON COMPARISON 29 2013/14 24 2014 20 2015/16 22 2016/17 2017/18 14 10 2018/19 12 2019/20 24 2020/21 08

PROFESSIONAL FOOTBALLERS AUSTRALIA / W-LEAGUE REPORT 2020/21 STRATEGIC CONTEXT STRATEGIC CONTEXT STRATEGIC CONTEXT STRATEGIC CONTEXT STRATEGIC CONTEXT STRATEGIC CONTEXT STRATEGIC CONTEXT STRATEGIC CONTEXT STRATEGIC CONTEXT NEXT GENERATION PLAYERS AGED 22ANDUNDERWITH OVER 900MINUTES PLAYED YOUTH MATCH MINUTES 2020/21: *Age as at the start ofthe2020/21W-LeagueNote: *Ageasatthestart Season. Emily Condon PLAYER Jessika Nash Hana Lowry Jamilla Rankin Tori Tumeth Polly Doran Kyra Cooney-Cross Winonah Heatley Deborah-Anne delaHarpe Tessa Tamplin Leah Davidson Danika Matos Remy Siemsen Princess Ibini-Isei Jada Whyman Charlotte Mclean Melina Ayres Claudia Bunge Grace Maher Elizabeth Anton Nickoletta Flannery Matilda McNamara TEAM United Glory Roar Melbourne City Melbourne Victory Melbourne Victory Canberra United Brisbane Roar Glory Perth Newcastle Jets Melbourne City Western Sydney Wanderers Sydney FC Sydney FC Sydney FC Sydney FC Melbourne Victory Melbourne Victory Canberra United Sydney FC Glory Perth Canberra United Adelaide United Adelaide United AGE* 16 17 17 19 19 19 19 19 20 20 20 21 21 21 21 21 21 21 21 22 22 22 22 22 1,079 1,006 1,059 985 966 1,050 995 1,061 1,028 1,018 1,076 924 930 1,008 1,080 1,049 1,025 1,080 1,018 1,062 1,080 1,033 1,080 1,027 PLAYED MINUTES 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 11 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 ANCES APPEAR- 09

PROFESSIONAL FOOTBALLERS AUSTRALIA / W-LEAGUE REPORT 2020/21 STRATEGIC CONTEXT STRATEGIC CONTEXT STRATEGIC CONTEXT STRATEGIC CONTEXT STRATEGIC CONTEXT STRATEGIC CONTEXT STRATEGIC CONTEXT STRATEGIC CONTEXT STRATEGIC CONTEXT OF MATILDAS GENERATION’ THE ‘GOLDEN with contracts in the NWSL. the in contracts with season W-League their complementing of calendar football, build a full-time to opportunity the -had Matildas the represent to on went –who players these of many that time first the was This folded. league Soccer’ fessional Pro ‘Women’s the after emerged which League, Soccer Women’s National established newly the to moved players several season, 2012/13 the After caps. 75 over –have (83) Catley Steph and (90), Kerr Sam (93), Simon Kyah (79), Gorry Katrina (86), Foord Caitlin (90), Kennedy –Alanna them of Six Team. National the for caps 602 earned have them between and Matildas the for played have 15 players group, that From minutes900 threshold. the reach to cohort under and 22 the (31) within players of number highest the produced season 2012/13 the season, recent most the to Compared tion’ of Matildas Genera ‘Golden the of emergence The - -

YOUTH MATCH MINUTES 2012/13: PLAYERS AGED 22 AND UNDER WITH OVER 900 MINUTES PLAYED *Age as at the start ofthe2012/13 W-LeagueNote: *Ageasat the start Season. Ann Mayo Stephanie Catley Alexandra Huynh Samantha Kerr Erika Elze Jennifer Bisset Vedrana Popovic Marianna Tabain Nicole Begg Sykes Bronwyn Studman Alesha Clifford Enza Barilla Sarah McLaughlin Liz Milne Gulcan Koca PLAYER Jessica Waterhouse Samantha Spackman Sydney FC Adelaide United Melbourne Victory Western SydneyWanderers Newcastle Jets Melbourne Victory Sydney FC Brisbane Roar Brisbane Roar Canberra United Brisbane Roar Perth Glory Perth Canberra United Perth Glory Perth Western Sydney Wanderers Melbourne Victory Adelaide United Adelaide United Glory Perth Melbourne Victory Newcastle Jets TEAM Sydney FC Adelaide United Adelaide United Sydney FC Melbourne Victory Newcastle Jets Canberra United Sydney FC Western Sydney Wanderers Sydney FC 17 18 18 18 19 19 19 19 20 20 20 20 20 20 21 21 22 21 21 22 22 AGE* 15 15 16 17 17 17 18 21 21 22 989 1,080 1,110 924 1,080 1,290 986 1,170 973 1,000 1,120 1,144 1,080 1,077 957 1,226 1,080 900 1,094 1,100 1,080 1,123 900 900 962 1,110 1,080 900 990 919 1,260 PLAYED MINUTES 12 12 12 12 12 14 12 12 13 11 13 13 12 12 11 14 12 10 12 13 12 14 10 10 12 12 12 10 11 11 14 ANCES APPEAR- 7 86 18 2 25 90 83 1 3 90 79 2 93 11 12 CAPS MATILDAS 10

PROFESSIONAL FOOTBALLERS AUSTRALIA / W-LEAGUE REPORT 2020/21 FRAMEWORK EMPLOYMENT League Comparison Squad Profile Match Minutes Foreign Players Player Analysis Player Payments Snapshot 11

PROFESSIONAL FOOTBALLERS AUSTRALIA / W-LEAGUE REPORT 2020/21 SNAPSHOT EMPLOYMENT FRAMEWORK EMPLOYMENT

$354,261 43% 23

Average spend on total player Percentage of players in their first Number of foreign players in the payments per club this season, down season at thier club W-League, down 14 from last season 14% from last season

22 18 66%

Average age of players in the Players Aged 30+ who made an Percentage of players who intend to W-League this season appearance, up 1 stay at their current club next season, down 3% W-LEAGUE REPORT 2020/21 REPORT W-LEAGUE / AUSTRALIA PROFESSIONAL FOOTBALLERS

12 EMPLOYMENT FRAMEWORK FRAMEWORK EMPLOYMENT EMPLOYMENT FRAMEWORK EMPLOYMENT FRAMEWORK FRAMEWORK EMPLOYMENT EMPLOYMENT FRAMEWORK EMPLOYMENT EMPLOYMENT FRAMEWORK EMPLOYMENT FRAMEWORK EMPLOYMENT FRAMEWORK EMPLOYMENT FRAMEWORK EMPLOYMENT FRAMEWORK EMPLOYMENT FRAMEWORK EMPLOYMENT FRAMEWORK PAYMENTS PLAYER BY SEASON PLAYER PAYMENTS: $0 LEAGUE COMPARISON PLAYER SALARIES: 2020/21 2019/20 2018/19 2017/18 SEASON

$50,000

$100,000

$150,000 $450,000 $450,000 $350,000 $300,000 MAXIMUM PLAYER PAYMENTS

$200,000

$250,000

$300,000 $354,260.89 $411,820.78 $365,431.00 $274,653.44 $350,000 (INC GUEST &MARQUEE) AVG SPENDPERCLUB

$400,000

$450,000

$500,000 invest heavily in women’s football. football. women’s in heavily invest countries more and more as W-League the than greater far is leagues world’s the of some in potential earning the that clear it’s this, despite However, sites. web league sometimes and reports media on mainly based ranges salary of approximation an provide results The considered. be to needs players the of status ment employ part-time and W-League the of length the salaries, comparing when available information. For context, publicly for searched PFA the world, the around leagues Women’s other to W-League the in salaries To compare - - 13

PROFESSIONAL FOOTBALLERS AUSTRALIA / W-LEAGUE REPORT 2020/21 EMPLOYMENT FRAMEWORK EMPLOYMENT FRAMEWORK EMPLOYMENT FRAMEWORK EMPLOYMENT FRAMEWORK EMPLOYMENT FRAMEWORK EMPLOYMENT FRAMEWORK EMPLOYMENT FRAMEWORK ANALYSIS PLAYER SURVEY W-LEAGUE EXPERIENCE BY SEASONSPLAYED TOTAL PLAYERS Unsure 188 Number of Players CONTRACTED Yes No 0 10 20 30 40 50 Do you planonplayinginthe W-League next season? 2% 46 1 21% 30 2 TOTAL PLAYERS 181 IN SQUADS 26 3 17 4 17 5 TOTAL PLAYERS 171 USED 77% 12 6 Seasons Played 9 7 Unsure Yes No FIRST YEAR AT THEIR CLUB PERCENTAGE OFPLAYERS IN 43% 39% 45% 46% Do you intend to play for your current W-League Clubnext season? 4 8 2020/21 2019/20 2018/19 2017/18 4% 5 9 30% 10 5 tracted withW-League clubsin seasons ofexperience,up 2020/21, withanaverage 4.3 In all,188 11 5 43% playerswerecon 12 5 from 2019/20. 66% 13 7 0.1 - 14

PROFESSIONAL FOOTBALLERS AUSTRALIA / W-LEAGUE REPORT 2020/21 NUMBER OF FOREIGN FOREIGN PLAYERS IN THE W-LEAGUE

EMPLOYMENT FRAMEWORK EMPLOYMENT PLAYERS NORTH 6 AMERICA Down 20 7 EUROPE Down 1 1 ASIA 23 No Change Down 14 0 AFRICA No Change

SOUTH 3 AMERICA Up 1

OCEANIA 6 Up 4 CONFEDERATION OF FOREIGN PLAYERS IN THE A-LEAGUE

40

37

33 33 NUMBER OF FOREIGN PLAYERS IN THE A-LEAGUE: YEAR BY YEAR 29

25 23 21

17 15

10 10

7 W-LEAGUE REPORT 2020/21 REPORT W-LEAGUE / AUSTRALIA PROFESSIONAL FOOTBALLERS

2008/09 2009/10 2010/11 2011/12 2012/13 2013/14 2014/15 2015/16 2016/17 2017/18 2018/19 2019/20 2020/21 15 EMPLOYMENT FRAMEWORK FRAMEWORK EMPLOYMENT EMPLOYMENT FRAMEWORK EMPLOYMENT FRAMEWORK FRAMEWORK EMPLOYMENT EMPLOYMENT FRAMEWORK EMPLOYMENT EMPLOYMENT FRAMEWORK EMPLOYMENT FRAMEWORK EMPLOYMENT FRAMEWORK EMPLOYMENT FRAMEWORK EMPLOYMENT FRAMEWORK EMPLOYMENT FRAMEWORK EMPLOYMENT FRAMEWORK MINUTES MATCH 113,483 0 200 400 600 800 1,000 AGE GROUP AVERAGE MINUTES PLAYED PERPLAYER: TOTAL MINUTES PLAYED 531 U17 18-24 667 25-29 593 MADE AN APPEARANCE TOTAL PLAYERS WHO PLAYED PERPLAYER AVERAGE MINUTES 664 171 851 30+ AVE. 664 2020/21 2019/20 2018/19 2017/18 2016/17 2020/21 2019/20 2018/19 2017/18 2016/17 AGE GROUP TOTAL MINUTES PLAYED: AGE GROUP NUMBER OFPLAYERS WHOMADE AN APPEARANCE: 3% 5% 6% 8% 7% 8% 10% 8% U17 13% U17 18% 48% 43% 41% 42% 50% 54% 45% 18-24 57% 57% 59% 18-24 32% 22% 42% 38% 42% 32% 25% 25-29 25-29 31% 29% 25% 12% 12% 12% 13% 10% 30+ 30+ 5% 5% 8% 13% 10% 16

PROFESSIONAL FOOTBALLERS AUSTRALIA / W-LEAGUE REPORT 2020/21 EMPLOYMENT FRAMEWORK EMPLOYMENT FRAMEWORK EMPLOYMENT FRAMEWORK EMPLOYMENT FRAMEWORK EMPLOYMENT FRAMEWORK EMPLOYMENT FRAMEWORK EMPLOYMENT FRAMEWORK PROFILE SQUAD FC had six players. six had FC Sydney while minutes, match available of 90% over accumulate players seven had Victory Melbourne and United, Canberra Roar, Brisbane finalists. four the also were year this competition the in squads stable most four The

SQUAD STABILITY: SQUAD PROFILE: CLUB COMPARISON CLUB COMPARISON 0-10% PLAYERS CONTRACTED 11-20% 22 20 20 23 23 18 21 21 21 21-30% 31-40% PLAYERS USED 20 20 20 20 18 19 18 18 19 41-50% 51-60% PLAYERS INFIRST YEAR AT CLUB 10 14 61-70% 9 8 9 9 8 9 5 71-80% AVERAGE AGE 23.4 22.8 22.9 24.3 25.2 24.3 23.6 24.4 22.9 81-90% 91-100% 17

PROFESSIONAL FOOTBALLERS AUSTRALIA / W-LEAGUE REPORT 2020/21 LEAGUE 9 Clubs 12 REGULAR SEASON GAMES MINIMUM CUP GAMES

EMPLOYMENT FRAMEWORK EMPLOYMENT COMPARISON 12 Clubs 20 6 GAMES PLAYED: GAMES LEAGUE COMPARISON LEAGUE 18 Clubs 34 1

12 Clubs 22 1

10 Clubs 24 4

12 Clubs 20 1

10 Clubs 24 1 LEAGUE COMPARISON LEAGUE FOOTBALL CALENDAR: FOOTBALL W-LEAGUE REPORT 2020/21 REPORT W-LEAGUE / AUSTRALIA PROFESSIONAL FOOTBALLERS

INDICATES SEASON OVERLAP JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC 18 EMPLOYMENT FRAMEWORK FRAMEWORK EMPLOYMENT EMPLOYMENT FRAMEWORK EMPLOYMENT FRAMEWORK FRAMEWORK EMPLOYMENT EMPLOYMENT FRAMEWORK EMPLOYMENT ASSESSMENT LEAGUE Integration Pitch Ratings Attendance Broadcast Competitive Balance Snapshot 19

PROFESSIONAL FOOTBALLERS AUSTRALIA / W-LEAGUE REPORT 2020/21 LEAGUE ASSESSMENT LEAGUE ASSESSMENT LEAGUE ASSESSMENT LEAGUE ASSESSMENT LEAGUE ASSESSMENT LEAGUE ASSESSMENT LEAGUE ASSESSMENT LEAGUE ASSESSMENT LEAGUE ASSESSMENT SNAPSHOT The distance between the first and The distance between the first and 27 points last placed teams this season Average pitch rating stadia. in‘major’ Down from 4.18 last season 3.9 Percentage of matches wonbya 44% margin of 1 goal Average pitch rating stadia. in‘minor’ Up from 3.28 last season 3.4 Average attendance at homeand away matchesthis season 1,061 20

PROFESSIONAL FOOTBALLERS AUSTRALIA / W-LEAGUE REPORT 2020/21 LEAGUE ASSESSMENT LEAGUE ASSESSMENT LEAGUE ASSESSMENT LEAGUE ASSESSMENT LEAGUE ASSESSMENT LEAGUE ASSESSMENT LEAGUE ASSESSMENT LEAGUE ASSESSMENT LEAGUE ASSESSMENT BALANCE COMPETITIVE

WINNING MARGINS POINTS SPREAD COMPARISON 2020/21 2019/20 2018/19 2017/18 2016/17 2015/16 0 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 2015/16 DRAW 14% 2016/17 1 GOAL 2017/18 2 GOALS 2018/19 44% 3 GOALS 14% 2019/20 4+ GOALS 12% 2020/21 16% itive competition than the previous year. previous the than competition itive declined, suggesting a more compet blowouts goal 4+ and year this grew 1goal by decided games and draws of percentage the competitiveness, match in of terms In W-League. the in ever lowest second equal the campaign, this point one up pick to managed only ry Glo Perth Winless era. W-League the in tally highest fourth equal the points, 28 with table the of top on finishing season afantastic had FC Sydney year. last as figure same exact the teams, bottom and top the separating points 27 with season this same the remained tition compe the across spread points The - - - 21

PROFESSIONAL FOOTBALLERS AUSTRALIA / W-LEAGUE REPORT 2020/21 AVERAGE COMBINED VIEWERSHIP GRAND FINAL COMBINED VIEWERSHIP BROADCAST PER GAME

2017/18 17,306 2017/18 28,391

2018/19 14,192 2018/19 83,822 LEAGUE ASSESSMENT LEAGUE ASSESSMENT LEAGUE

2019/20 15,421 2019/20 62,000

2020/21 23,081 2020/21 99,069

Note: Combined viewership’ refers to the combined viewership of ABC and broadcasts.

How satisfied are you with the broadcast of AVERAGE BROADCAST SATISFACTION: W-LEAGUE the W-League this season? BY YEAR SURVEY

Not At All Satisfied 40% Extremely Satisfied

Slightly Satisfied 43% 2.39 2.28 1.77 Very Satisfied 16%

Extremely Satisfied 1% Not At All Satisfied 2018/19 2019/20 2020/21

While viewership of the W-League spiked this the global pandemic forces people to spend all satisfied” rose from 11% in last season’s season, the quality of the broadcast dropped more time at home. Unfortunately, at the same survey to 40% this season; Fox Sports’ last year according to feedback from the players’ time, players’ satisfaction with the broadcast broadcasting the league. Next season brings survey. Average viewership per game surged dropped significantly as the coverage ran into hope that new broadcaster ViacomCBS (through almost 50% higher than the previous season multiple technical issues throughout the season. Channel 10) can continue to build audiences and

as interest in women’s football grows and The percentage of players who were “Not at give the league the coverage it deserves. 2020/21 REPORT W-LEAGUE / AUSTRALIA PROFESSIONAL FOOTBALLERS 22 LEAGUE ASSESSMENT ASSESSMENT LEAGUE ASSESSMENT LEAGUE ASSESSMENT LEAGUE LEAGUE ASSESSMENT ASSESSMENT LEAGUE ASSESSMENT LEAGUE ASSESSMENT LEAGUE 2,139

AVERAGE W-LEAGUE ATTENDANCE: ATTENDANCE HOME-AND-AWAY SEASON COMPARISON 1,784

Note: Two matches were closed to the public owing to restric- 1,598 tions imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic. These matches have been removed, and the attendance average for season 2020-21 1,427 adjusted accordingly. Moreover, with the COVID-19 pandemic casting an ever-present shadow over everyday life, people may

LEAGUE ASSESSMENT LEAGUE ASSESSMENT LEAGUE have chosen to forgo sporting events. Therefore, any analysis of crowd figures this season needs to keep this in mind. 1,074 1,061 1,017

724 617 506

2011/12 2012/13 2013/14 2014/15 2015/16 2016/17 2017/18 2018/19 2019/20 2020/21

FINALS COMBINED ATTENDANCE To benchmark attendances in the W-League against ed women’s leagues in the world, it now finds itself other professional women’s football leagues, the at a key moment in its trajectory. With many other PFA collated data from a range of women’s leagues leagues showing upward trends in their attendance around the world for the last three seasons (preced- figures, the W-League’s declining crowds highlights ing the COVID-19 pandemic). The data shows that the need for investment and reform to avoid losing while the W-League was once one of the best attend- more ground.

2,000 8,000 18,997 W-League

NWSL

1,500 6,000 FAWSL

12,407 11,255 1,000 COMPARISON LEAGUE 4,000 AVERAGE ATTENDANCES: ATTENDANCES: AVERAGE 8,648 Division 1 Féminine

Frauen-Bundesliga 500 2,000 1,316 0 0 W-LEAGUE REPORT 2020/21 REPORT W-LEAGUE / AUSTRALIA PROFESSIONAL FOOTBALLERS 2016/17 2017/18 2018/19 2019/20 2020/21 2017/18 2018/19 2019/20 Source: fbref.com 23 LEAGUE ASSESSMENT ASSESSMENT LEAGUE ASSESSMENT LEAGUE ASSESSMENT LEAGUE LEAGUE ASSESSMENT ASSESSMENT LEAGUE ASSESSMENT LEAGUE ASSESSMENT LEAGUE LEAGUE ASSESSMENT LEAGUE ASSESSMENT LEAGUE ASSESSMENT LEAGUE ASSESSMENT LEAGUE ASSESSMENT LEAGUE ASSESSMENT LEAGUE ASSESSMENT LEAGUE ASSESSMENT LEAGUE ASSESSMENT RATINGS PITCH PITCH RATINGS KEY OVERALL QUALITY SMOOTHNESS HARDNESS PACE TOO SLOW TOO SOFT all quality are simply scored out of five. of out scored simply are quality all over and smoothness while middle, the at sits score ideal the where ascale on measured are hardness and Pace ity. hardness, smoothness and overall qual pace, measures: four on surface playing the rate Players match. each after players team away selected by on voted are Ratings Pitch W-League PFA The PERFECT TOO HARD TOO FAST - - OVERALL QUALITY SMOOTHNESS HARDNESS PACE OVERALL QUALITY SMOOTHNESS HARDNESS PACE QUALITY OVERALL AVERAGE OVERALL QUALITY SMOOTHNESS HARDNESS PACE OVERALL QUALITY SMOOTHNESS HARDNESS PACE OVERALL QUALITY SMOOTHNESS HARDNESS PACE OVERALL QUALITY SMOOTHNESS HARDNESS PACE OVERALL QUALITY SMOOTHNESS HARDNESS PACE OVERALL QUALITY SMOOTHNESS HARDNESS PACE OVERALL QUALITY SMOOTHNESS HARDNESS PACE Bankwest Stadium McDonald Jones Stadium Stadium Australia AAMI Park AAMI Park Coopers Stadium MAJOR STADIA 3.9 3.4 MINOR STADIA Marconi Stadium Cromer Park Dorrien Gardens No. 2 Sportsground CB Smith Reserve CB Smith Reserve Viking Park Moreton Daily Stadium Complex Marden Sports Wanderers Centre of Football Leichardt Oval Epping Stadium Frank Holohan Reserve Gold Coast Sports Centre Gold Coast Sports Netstrata Jubilee Stadium Latrobe City Stadium Kingston Heath SoccerComplex Lions FC Stadium 3.5 TOTAL 24

PROFESSIONAL FOOTBALLERS AUSTRALIA / W-LEAGUE REPORT 2020/21 LEAGUE ASSESSMENT LEAGUE ASSESSMENT LEAGUE ASSESSMENT LEAGUE ASSESSMENT LEAGUE ASSESSMENT LEAGUE ASSESSMENT LEAGUE ASSESSMENT LEAGUE ASSESSMENT LEAGUE ASSESSMENT INTEGRATION CLUB Do you believe yourclub’s facilities are female friendly? season. 19% last from down satisfied, ‘extremely’ or ‘very’ either 18% respondents of only with (46%), satisfied’ ‘slightly was response mon com most the survey, season’s this in 36% to 44% from dropped satisfied’ all at ‘Not were who players of percentage the While Leagues. both enhance to ty opportuni an remains teams W-League and A-League the of Integration SURVEY W-LEAGUE Yes No 20% - - W-League team with their A-League team? How satisfied areyou with the extent that yourclubhasintegrated their 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% INTEGRATION SATISFACTION CLUB BY CLUB BREAKDOWN: Not at all Not atall satisfied 30% Not atallsatisfied 28% 44% 80% 36% CLUB A CLUB B satisfied 43% Slightly Slightly CLUB C Slightly satisfied club’s standards? (Top performance 5answers) In what areasdoyou feel the biggest gains could bemadeto improve your Communication from coachingstaff 40% 37% Greater focusonpsychology CLUB CLUB D E Strength &conditioning 46% CLUB F Training facilities Medical services CLUB G 15% CLUB H Very satisfied 26% satisfied Very Very 13% 17% 2018/19 2017/18 7% 25% Extremely satisfied 6% 29% 31% 34% 34% 6% 2020/21 2019/20 Extremely Extremely satisfied 1% 25

PROFESSIONAL FOOTBALLERS AUSTRALIA / W-LEAGUE REPORT 2020/21 REPORT TECHNICAL Possession &Refereeing Passing &Defending Goals 26

PROFESSIONAL FOOTBALLERS AUSTRALIA / W-LEAGUE REPORT 2020/21 TECHNICAL REPORT TECHNICAL REPORT TECHNICAL REPORT TECHNICAL REPORT TECHNICAL REPORT TECHNICAL REPORT TECHNICAL REPORT TECHNICAL REPORT TECHNICAL REPORT GOALS the W-League ranks a clear first in dribbles per per dribbles in first aclear ranks W-League the style, playing of terms In draw. a scoreless in ending matches of 3.8% with lowest the being Damallsvenskan Sweden’s with draws goalless of percentage the on pack mid ranks it although game, 3.16 per at goals league, scoring highest the is W-League the leagues, selected the Of competitiveness. or style in differences or ties similari any identify to leagues female of lection ase across InStat, by provided data statistical compared PFA the report, technical year’s this In match but is the lowest in crosses completed completed crosses in lowest the is but match GOALS PER MATCH per match. The data also suggests the the suggests also data The match. per W-League is one of the more physical physical more the of one is W-League 0 1 2 3 4 5 leagues in women’s football, having having football, women’s in leagues the highest tally for tackles and and tackles for tally highest the yellow cards. 3.2 W-League 2.6 NWSL 3.1 FAWSL 2.9 Damallsvenskan 2.7 Toppserien - -

OFFSIDES PER MATCH CHANCES PER MATCH CROSSES PER MATCH 0 5 10 15 20 25 0 1 2 3 4 5 0 3 6 9 12 15 22.4 11.2 3.3 W-League W-League W-League 10.5 26.5 5.0 NWSL NWSL NWSL 22.6 10.1 3.4 FAWSL FAWSL FAWSL 11.0 27.2 4.4 Damallsvenskan Damallsvenskan Damallsvenskan 23.8 9.4 4.1 Toppserien Toppserien Toppserien

DRIBBLES PER MATCH PERCENTAGE OF GOALLESS DRAWS CORNERS PER MATCH 0 20 40 60 80 100 0% 2% 4% 6% 8% 10% 0 2 4 6 8 10 5.3% 62.8 9.4 W-League W-League W-League 6.3% 48.7 9.3 NWSL NWSL NWSL 8.3% 47.7 9.2 FAWSL FAWSL FAWSL 3.8% 10.2 51.1 Damallsvenskan Damallsvenskan Damallsvenskan 6.7% 56.9 8.7 Toppserien Toppserien Toppserien 27

PROFESSIONAL FOOTBALLERS AUSTRALIA / W-LEAGUE REPORT 2020/21 TECHNICAL REPORT TECHNICAL REPORT TECHNICAL REPORT TECHNICAL REPORT TECHNICAL REPORT TECHNICAL REPORT TECHNICAL REPORT TECHNICAL REPORT TECHNICAL REPORT DEFENDING PASSING &

SHOTS PER MATCH PASSES PER MATCH 0 5 10 15 20 25 0 200 400 600 800 1,000 938.7 25.8 W-League W-League 936.0 25.1 NWSL NWSL 901.6 22.8 FAWSL FAWSL 1,016 26.7 Damallsvenskan Damallsvenskan 924.2 24.3 Toppserien Toppserien

TACKLES PER MATCH FOULS PER MATCH 0 5 10 15 20 25 0 20 40 60 80 100 83.0 17.2 W-League W-League 64.7 18.1 NWSL NWSL 63.3 17.5 FAWSL FAWSL 66.4 17.7 Damallsvenskan Damallsvenskan 73.3 16.9 Toppserien Toppserien

SUCCESSFUL TACKLES PER MATCH INTERCEPTIONS PER MATCH 0 20 40 60 80 100 0 25 50 75 100 125 128.5 48.7 W-League W-League 112.2 38.1 NWSL NWSL 111.6 36.4 FAWSL FAWSL 117.9 37.5 Damallsvenskan Damallsvenskan 117.2 42.8 Toppserien Toppserien 28

PROFESSIONAL FOOTBALLERS AUSTRALIA / W-LEAGUE REPORT 2020/21 TECHNICAL REPORT TECHNICAL REPORT TECHNICAL REPORT TECHNICAL REPORT TECHNICAL REPORT TECHNICAL REPORT TECHNICAL REPORT TECHNICAL REPORT TECHNICAL REPORT REFEREEING POSSESSION & Down 3% Up 5% Up 1% Down 4% Down 5% Up 4% Up 4% Down 9% Up 4% BY CLUB PERCENTAGE OFPOSSESSION: 2020/21 2019/20 40% 43% 45% 47% 46% 46% 47% 49% 48% 50% 51% 52% 53% 53% 55% 55% 57% 64%

PENALTIES PER MATCH RED CARDS PER MATCH YELLOW CARDS PER MATCH 0 0.5 1.0 1.5 2.0 2.5 0 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.4 0.5 0 0.02 0.04 0.06 0.08 0.10 2.30 0.18 0.05 W-League W-League W-League 0.22 0.08 1.98 NWSL NWSL NWSL 0.27 0.05 2.06 FAWSL FAWSL FAWSL 0.27 0.07 1.73 Damallsvenskan Damallsvenskan Damallsvenskan 0.27 0.06 2.04 Toppserien Toppserien Toppserien SURVEY W-LEAGUE 2020/21 2019/20 2018/19 2020/21 2019/20 2018/19 2020/21 2019/20 2018/19 DECISION MAKING PLAYER SAFETY COMMUNICATION five. of out making decision and safety player of protection communication, referee’s the rate to players asked we vey, sur post-match the of part as 2018, Since 2.6 2.6 2.7 2.7 2.8 2.9 3.3 3.3 - 3.5 29

PROFESSIONAL FOOTBALLERS AUSTRALIA / W-LEAGUE REPORT 2020/21 REPORT INJURY Location of Injuries Season Overview Methodology Snapshot 30

PROFESSIONAL FOOTBALLERS AUSTRALIA / W-LEAGUE REPORT 2020/21 INJURY REPORT INJURY REPORT INJURY REPORT INJURY REPORT INJURY REPORT INJURY REPORT INJURY REPORT INJURY REPORT INJURY REPORT INJURY REPORT INJURY REPORT INJURY REPORT SNAPSHOT medical care below expectations; the lowest figure figure lowest the expectations; below care medical their rated players of 7% only that was survey annual the in feedback player through revealed factor uting Acontrib steady. remained injuries W-League factor, risk this despite However, risk. injury in factor cited acommonly is load playing and training increased athletes, in injuries cause factors several While days. 38 over matches nine played Glory Perth season, the To finish season. this occasions eight on days 4-5 within matches two playing teams in resulted challenges Scheduling pandemic. global COVID-19 the to due players on the positive placed additional demands considering is season this significantly increase not did injuries that fact The desirable. always is injuries Reducing years. five last the over injury per missed matches 3.42 of average term long- the to close very is figure this However, 3.23). from (up season this injury per missed matches 3.48 with injuries, of severity the in increase an indicates This season. this 142 153 to matches from slightly, increased injury to due missed matches of number the while (44), season previous the as same the was season this W-League the in injuries of number The - to get the treatment they needed. they treatment the get to difficult it made personnel medical dedicated limited that concern expressing respondents survey several with players, concern to continue treatment of length and access the seasons, previous than support medical overall with satisfied more are players While season. previous the for 17% recorded the than higher significantly and began survey the since highest the again expectations, above support medical the rated players of 29% survey. annual the completing been has PFA the that years four the in 31

PROFESSIONAL FOOTBALLERS AUSTRALIA / W-LEAGUE REPORT 2020/21 INJURY REPORT INJURY REPORT INJURY REPORT INJURY REPORT INJURY REPORT INJURY REPORT INJURY REPORT INJURY REPORT INJURY REPORT INJURY REPORT INJURY REPORT INJURY REPORT METHODOLOGY in, at a minimum, the player’s next official W-League W-League official next player’s the a minimum, at in, part take to unable being aplayer in resulted that ing train or game acompetitive during sustained plaint com physical “any as defined is injury report, this In matches. miss to players causing injuries all of location and occurrence the recorded and collected PFA the nals), fi (excluding season W-League 2020-21 the During This report does notincludeinjuriesplayers receivedwhileplaying fortheAustralianThis report Women’s National Team. player injuries. They are,however, anaccurate summation ofthepubliclyavailable informationprovided byFA and clubsources. information from whichitisderived.Accordingly,thePFA doesnotwarrant that the resultsareanexactandcompleterecord of Note: The accuracy ofthePFA W-League InjuryReport’s resultsandanalysisisdependent upontheaccuracy ofthesources of OFFICIAL MEDIA RELEASES OFFICIAL WEBSITES WEEKLY MATCH PREVIEWS (FA) - - - analyses were conducted. were analyses descriptive missed, games related and occurrence injury about collected data the on Based game.” the followingcally through key sources: specifi feedback, private and information available publicly from formulated was Report Injury PFA The FROM W-LEAGUE PLAYERS DIRECT COMMUNICATION REVIEWS CLUB MATCH PREVIEWS/ OFFICIAL W-LEAGUE - 32

PROFESSIONAL FOOTBALLERS AUSTRALIA / W-LEAGUE REPORT 2020/21 INJURY REPORT INJURY REPORT INJURY REPORT INJURY REPORT INJURY REPORT INJURY REPORT INJURY REPORT INJURY REPORT INJURY REPORT INJURY REPORT INJURY REPORT INJURY REPORT OVERVIEW SEASON 0 1 2 3 4 5 MATCHES MISSEDPERINJURY 0 10 20 30 40 50 NUMBER OFINJURIES 3.7 35 2016/17 2016/17 3.0 33 2017/18 2017/18 3.7 47 2018/19 2018/19 3.2 44 2019/20 2019/20 3.5 44 2020/21 2020/21 TOTAL COST OFINJURIES 0 50 100 150 200 250 MATCHES MISSEDFROMINJURY Up $58,762 from last season $290,749 matches missed. then multiplyingbytherecordednumberof that clubofeachmatchmisseddueto injury, players x12rounds) to findthe average cost to total playerpaymentsateachclubby192(16 Note: Total costiscalculatedbydividing the 130 2016/17 99 2017/18 173 2018/19 142 2019/20 153 2020/21 BY CLUB MATCHES MISSEDDUE TO INJURY: 0 Down 29 Down 22 Up 1 Up 1 No Change Up 8 No Change Up 23 Up 29 4 5 6 7 2020/21 11 10 13 13 13 16 21 24 24 27 27 2019/20 29 45 33

PROFESSIONAL FOOTBALLERS AUSTRALIA / W-LEAGUE REPORT 2020/21 INJURY LOCATION NUMBER OF INJURIES MISSED MATCHES MISSED MATCHED CHANGE- FROM 2019/20

HEAD/CONCUSSION 4 4 +1

UNSTATED 5 7 -11

ILLNESS 3 4 +3

BACK 0 0 -4

ARM 0 0 0

WRIST 1 5 +5

HAND 2 7 +7

HIP/GROIN 1 3 +3

QUAD 2 5 -1

HAMSTRING 6 26 +10

KNEE 11 57 0

CALF 0 0 -9

LEG 2 15 +15

ANKLE 5 10 -3

ACHILLES 0 0 0

FOOT 2 10 -5 2020/21 REPORT W-LEAGUE / AUSTRALIA PROFESSIONAL FOOTBALLERS 34 INJURY REPORT INJURY REPORT INJURY REPORT INJURY REPORT INJURY REPORT INJURY REPORT INJURY REPORT INJURY REPORT INJURY REPORT INJURY REPORT INJURY REPORT INJURY REPORT INJURY DEVELOPMENT PLAYER Career & TransitionCareer Program Engagament 35

PROFESSIONAL FOOTBALLERS AUSTRALIA / W-LEAGUE REPORT 2020/21 PROGRAM EDUCATION HIGHLIGHTS W-LEAGUE ENGAGEMENT GRANTS PACKAGES SURVEY 65 21

PFA CONCUSSION PFA RED BUTTON WORKSHOP APP WORKSHOP

101 101 How satisfied are you with the PFA Player Development Program?

PFA MEDIA 101 61% WORKSHOP 25

36%

While the PFA’s in-depth research and analysis • media 101 workshop for players interest- of the W-League and feedback from players ed in building their media literacy skills provides a comprehensive and unparalleled and insight into the competition, the organisation’s • a respectful relationships course Player Development Program provides a critical service for players in supporting them on and off While it’s important to track the players’ 3% the pitch throughout the season. engagement levels and overall feedback on the 0% program - 61% of players said they were satisfied The PFA maintained 99 per cent membership and 36% said they were extremely satisfied within the W-League for the 2020/21 season with the program - the individual support that Satisfied

and provided a varied range of support services, players receive in building their lives off the pitch Dissatisfied including confidential counselling, wellbeing and and careers on it, are harder to quantify. These

education resources, legal representation and overwhelming positive reviews of the program, Satisfied Extremely Extremely Dissatisfied Extremely highlights packages for players. however, suggest that it is valued highly within the W-League competition. For the first time in the 2020/21 season, the PFA expanded the program’s scope to deliver: • a concussion workshop; • education on the risk of match fixing 2020/21 REPORT W-LEAGUE / AUSTRALIA PROFESSIONAL FOOTBALLERS through FIFPRO’s Red Button App; 36 PLAYER DEVELOPMENT PLAYER DEVELOPMENT PLAYER DEVELOPMENT PLAYER DEVELOPMENT PLAYER DEVELOPMENT PLAYER DEVELOPMENT PLAYER DEVELOPMENT PLAYER DEVELOPMENT PLAYER CAREER & How confident are you about the direction 2018/19 What reasons might you leave the game 2018/19 of/your control over your football career? 2019/20 earlier than you otherwise might have? 2019/20 2020/21 2020/21 59% TRANSITION 58% 56% 53% 52% 49% 49% 49% 49% 45% 43% 44% 40% 32% 29%

8% 7% 5% 5% 5% 4%

Not At All Confident Slightly Confident Very Confident Extremely Confident Financial Reasons Pursue Business / Start a Family Career Interests

What factors would assist in prolonging 2018/19 How prepared do you feel for life after football? your football career? 2019/20 94% 2020/21 92% 91%

Not At All Prepared 9%

Slightly Prepared 41% 51% 49% 47% 47% 48% 43% Very Prepared 34%

Extremely Prepared 16%

More Money from Football Better Career Support Better Life Balance

W-LEAGUE The results of the past four W-League annual surveys The survey results also show that financial pressures illustrate the importance of off-field development continue to challenge female players’ careers, with SURVEY to prepare for transition. This season witnessed a 94% of respondents identifying more money from slight improvement in the number of players feeling football as a key factor that could prolong their ca- prepared for life after football, alongside a corre- reers. As women’s football leagues around the world sponding drop in those who felt not at all prepared. continue to professionalise, significant investment is This positive progression highlights how vital the needed if the W-League is to keep pace and attract PFA Player Development Program is in continuing to and retain the world’s best footballers. support players off the field as they prepare for the end of their playing days. 2020/21 REPORT W-LEAGUE / AUSTRALIA PROFESSIONAL FOOTBALLERS 37 PLAYER DEVELOPMENT PLAYER DEVELOPMENT PLAYER DEVELOPMENT PLAYER DEVELOPMENT PLAYER DEVELOPMENT PLAYER DEVELOPMENT PLAYER DEVELOPMENT PLAYER DEVELOPMENT PLAYER SUMMARY

Australia’s elite female players have always To maximise that opportunity, the players and been pioneers, committed to moving the ball the clubs can create foundational and enduring forward for the next generation. change for the W-League through the following guiding principles: This season that collective ambition was evident once again. Players not only endured the uncertainty of COVID-19 but delivered a season PARTNERSHIP that preserved a platform for growth and provid- After years of conservative strategic direction and mod- ed hope for the future. est investment, the new era of independence provides the perfect opportunity for the game and the players to build Promisingly, a new generation of players a genuine partnership and vision for the W-League received a vital increase in match minutes and first-team experience, which helped to answer the pressing question of whether our sport has 12 MONTH PROGRAM developed adequate player depth to maintain an There is an expectation from the players and a need from attractive and competitive league. Emphatically, league to extend and build a year-round women’s football the answer was yes. proposition that incorporates the W-League

Thanks to the players’ resolve, the W-League remains well placed for its INVESTMENT next stage of evolution. Investment is required across the entire football ecosys-

tem to create a full-time women’s program leading into With the separation of the profes- the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup sional leagues, a new broadcast partner and the opportunity to fur- ther enhance the attractiveness of the W-League career path through Through these three principles, the players can a new collective bargaining agree- help achieve their interdependent ambitions; ment illustrates the immediate build a football nation that supports world class opportunity that lies ahead. football careers.

W-LEAGUE REPORT 2020/21 REPORT W-LEAGUE / AUSTRALIA PROFESSIONAL FOOTBALLERS

38 COURAGE WORLD CLASS INTELLIGENCE TRUST RESPECT

Professional Footballers Australia 2/55 Walsh Street West Melbourne VIC 3003 1300 650 497 / [email protected] www.pfa.net.au