Gillon McLachlan Discusses Unconventional Launch of AFLW

Gillon McLachlan, the former CEO of the AFL, recently revealed the unconventional circumstances surrounding the launch of the AFL Women's League (AFLW) in 2016 during an appearance on the AFLW Inside Out podcast.

McLachlan disclosed that the announcement to create the league was made without following standard procedures, stating that he simply declared it during a speech without prior approval or a formal plan. The inaugural season of the AFLW took place in 2017, featuring eight teams, including Adelaide, Brisbane, and Melbourne, with Adelaide ultimately winning the championship.

As the league has expanded over the years, it now includes 18 teams, matching the AFL. McLachlan acknowledged criticism regarding the rapid expansion and its potential impact on the talent pool, asserting that the decision was his responsibility. He emphasized that the success of the AFLW should not solely be judged by the quality of play but also by its positive influence on men's football and community engagement since its inception.