Adelaide’s AFLW team and the Club’s grassroots programs have been boosted by significant State Government funding.

Premier Steven Marshall announced the $275,000 sponsorship of the team on Monday afternoon at Norwood Oval, where Adelaide will play two of its four AFLW home games in 2019.

This funding boost will help women’s football in South Australia at all levels, from elite to amateur, through Club run female-focused school and grassroots football programs.

These programs will help establish a pathway to the elite level of football.

Recently, the Crows community team reached a record 10,000 female participants through its programs such as the Crows Cup Carnival and school clinics.

Crows Chief Executive Officer Andrew Fagan acknowledged the ongoing support the Club has received from the SA Government.

“Our Club is committed to growing the women’s game in the central corridor of Australia and ensuring girls and young women can fulfil their potential as players, coaches and administrators, or even enjoying our great game as a fan,” Fagan said.

“We have made significant progress since embarking on this journey, with highlights being the inaugural AFLW premiership and the establishment of a unique Indigenous girls academy among many other initiatives.

“There is still much more to be achieved and we appreciate the fact the State Government has been a key supporter since day one and we look forward to their continued support.”

As part of the sponsorship, the Government will receive branding on the women’s team’s media backdrop and branding at Crows Cup Carnivals and high school programs.

Erin Phillips, Steven Marshall and Rob Chapman at Monday's announcement. Picture: Mark Brake

Premier Steven Marshall said the State Government funding would help increase participation numbers in women’s sport in South Australia, which are already increasing quickly.

“The popularity of the AFLW competition is on the rise in South Australia and across the nation, with the number of registered junior female teams in local clubs across the State increasing from eight to 110 in just two years,” he said.

 “With the number of young women wanting to engage in the sport rapidly increasing, it is important they are provided with the necessary resources to allow them to develop their skills, and ultimately play at the top level of the sport.

“Our hope is that this funding boost will allow more young women across the state to take up football.

“We are encouraged by the fact that the Crows women’s team has one of the highest television viewership and match attendance around the nation, and it paints a very promising picture for the future of football in our state.”

Adelaide’s 2019 AFLW season gets underway on Saturday, February 2 at Norwood Oval, against the reigning premiers, the Western Bulldogs.