Devils doubled, Tassie joins VFLW

It’s an historic day for football in Tasmania as the Devils take to the field in the VFLW competition.

Minister for Sport, Nick Duigan, said Tasmania’s time is now.

“Our Government is delivering Tasmania’s long-held dream to be part of the AFL, with our VFL and VFLW teams playing a Tasmanian blockbuster this weekend,” Minister Duigan said.

“Today is the first time we have had our own women’s team in the competition. To have the men’s and women’s teams playing at home in our first back-to-back matches is very exciting.

“More than 80 per cent of the VFLW team were born in Tasmania, with players recruited from local competitions and some Tasmanians who have moved home to play.”

Tasmania’s entrance in the VFL is already having a positive impact on the State.

“The crowd numbers for the men’s team have been amazing. It’s truly wonderful to see Tasmanians coming out in droves to support our team,” Minister Duigan said.

“The State expects to benefit from strong AFL and AFLW fixtures that will see big clubs – especially the Victorian clubs with strong membership bases only a short flight away – come to Tasmania right through our winter months.”

Both these teams are inspiring the next generation to be involved in sport and to represent their home proudly.

“The VFL teams are the building blocks for Tasmania to take its rightful place in the AFL competition in 2028. The players are out there developing the skills needed to match those bigger clubs,” Minister Duigan said.

“I love supporting our own team, in our own colours, singing our own song.”