AFLW clubs push for larger lists amid injury concerns

AFLW teams face significant player availability challenges just one month into the season as injury lists expand across the competition. Geelong was forced to name two top-up players for its recent match against Essendon, while Collingwood currently manages nine players on its injury list. Under existing rules, clubs may utilize top-up players from state leagues if they have fewer than 24 available players. Geelong coach Mick Stinear advocates for increasing active squad sizes from 30 to 32 to improve depth and provide better development opportunities for players within professional programs. The league saw 30 inactive replacements made prior to the start of the season due to injury, pregnancy, and other factors. Clubs continue to monitor player fitness as the season progresses, with several teams relying on train-on participants to fill gaps.

• 4:42 AMAFL — AFLW list sizes back in spotlight as clubs feel injury squeeze