The State Government has thrown its support behind the Crows’ AFL Women’s team and women’s footy in South Australia, committing $275,000 to the Adelaide Football Club to assist with its activities to grow female participation in the State.

The State Government will partner with the Club to support its women’s team as well as boost its female-focussed grassroots football and schools programs which aim to reach an audience of up to 10,000 girls.

Premier Jay Weatherill made the funding announcement at the team’s Round Three clash with Carlton at Thebarton Oval.

Crows Chairman Rob Chapman thanked the State Government for its ongoing support.

“We are thrilled with the way the people of South Australia and Northern Territory have got behind our team and we are extremely grateful that the State Government has provided a financial commitment over the next two seasons,” Chapman said.

“The response and passionate support afforded to our team reinforces the need to foster junior development and strengthen talent pathways, and our Club is committed to ensuring young girls and women can fulfil their potential as players, coaches and administrators.”

Across Australia, more than 380,000 women play Australian Rules football. In the past year, total female participation has increased by 19 per cent, with the number of girls playing Auskick increasing 21 per cent to more than 53,000.

The funding is in addition to a $275,000 commitment to the Crows’ AFLW team made last year, bringing the total State Government contribution to $550,000.

Premier Jay Weatherill said the Adelaide Crows AFL Women’s team has captured the imaginations of South Australians.

“The popularity of the Crows is sure to inspire a new generation of girls to pick up a footy,” he said.

“The State Government is proud to make this contribution to women’s sport in SA.”