Based on information from the AFL in regards to Youth Girls which is also applicable to women, there are multiple methods of attracting players.
The most effective method is: ASK!
Many women and girls probably don't know that aussie rules is a viable option for winter sport. If they don't know = they won't go. Friends are a very important social factor for females and using positive word of mouth is a great attraction strategy. So if you want to recruit - ask your friends/school mates / work colleagues if they want to come down for a kick.
Other methods - setting up a Facebook or Twitter account. With social media all the rage these days, it's important to stay connected with your potential audience. If you're not out there, i'm sure your competing clubs are. By my count i think there are about 5 SWAFL Facebook sites for clubs and growing each day.
If you are tied to a men's club, ask if they have sisters who are interested in playing. They probably have sisters who have grown up with footy so they are used to it.
If you are a University-based club, take advantage of Orientation-Week (O-Week) to attract new recruits as new university students are trying to find networks to make new friends. A footy club like Sydney University Womens Club has found many great players using this method. Pictured is Macquarie University's stand at 2011.
Putting up a flyer in gyms or newspaper articles may generate publicity but apparently is not as effective according to the AFL.
So the three most important R's for March is Recruit, Recruit and Recruit!!!!
Courtesy of the AFL, Central Coast GAA. Photo courtesy of Kim Woldhuis - MUAFC.
Last Modified on 12/05/2011 12:21