NRL Victoria hosted its second annual Female Footy Festival on Sunday at Seabrook Reserve in Broadmeadows, drawing a record-breaking attendance.
The festival welcomed more than 1,500 participants across league tag and tackle formats, setting a new benchmark for female participation in rugby league in Victoria.
More than 60 teams from across the state competed on the day, with players ranging from Under-8 girls to open women’s. Over 30 games were played across a packed schedule, showcasing some of the most exciting talent on offer.
Melbourne Storm supported the event with partner activations and guest speakers including Melbourne Storm Female Pathways Manager Pauline Poloai.
Poloai said the event was a major step forward in the continued development of female rugby league in the state.
“With participation numbers continuing to grow, it was fantastic to bring so many girls together in one place,” Poloai said.
“The rise in grassroots involvement is really promising—the future of the female rugby league pathway in Victoria is brighter than ever.”
The festival follows a milestone moment in May, when Melbourne Storm’s Female Development Squad played their first-ever match at AAMI Park against the North Sydney Bears.
