The AFL launched its Women’s League competition’s uniforms on Thursday morning, and they didn’t disappoint.
In collaboration with the Cotton On Group’s new athletic line COAR, AFL Chief Executive Officer Gillon McLachlan proudly announced to a packed room of media personnel: “[This] is what the future of women’s football looks like”.
The game’s marquee players Daisy Pearce, Lauren Arnell and Aasta O’Connor had heavy input into the designs and worked with Cotton On through “every step of the process”.
While the athletes described themselves as "hard customers to please", they're each "thrilled" with the end result.
O’Connor said her favourite piece of apparel is the match day shorts - which now feature a "contrast stripe" around the leg, Pearce is excited about the shorter, "summer friendly" socks, which will better suit the league's hot February to March conditions.
Overall, the women's apparel is similar to the men's, but with a welcome twist. As explained by a Cotton On spokesperson, designing a range "for women, by women" was something the company saw as a "no brainer".
As explained by a Cotton On spokesperson, designing a range "for women, by women" was something the company saw as a "no brainer".
"We've really had the opportunity to shape and define the uniforms for something that is a major sporting milestone in Australia's history," she said of the 14-piece uniforms which will be provided to the eight teams.
Not only are the new uniforms tailored to women's bodies, they're also made with a light weight fabric - as opposed to the men's 100 per cent polyester - that "compliments the female form as well as enhances performance".
"We're excited to bring some fun and fashion to the traditional uniforms," the Cotton On spokesperson added.
"We hope this will instill hope in the future generations to come."
The best part for female footy nuts?
It is believed fans will be able to purchase team-themed apparel outside a pair of baggy shorts and a men’s small jumper in the near future.
Finally!
LISTEN: We spoke to Collingwood footballer mum Kate Sheahan on I Don't Know How She Does It.