The AFL will consider changing its women’s competition rules to allow players to use a Gaelic football-style “solo” in place of a bounce. AFLW executive general manager Laura Kane said the league would review the idea, noting that more than 45 Irish players currently contribute to the competition.
The debate followed Geelong forward Rachel Kearns’ 30-metre run against the Western Bulldogs, during which she kicked the ball to herself twice. The umpires did not award a free kick, although current AFL rules require a player to bounce or touch the ball on the ground at least once every 15 metres and explicitly rule out kicking or handballing it to oneself as an alternative.
In Gaelic football, players can use a solo after running more than four strides to avoid conceding a free kick. Australian rules football instead requires a bounce for longer runs. Kane said the solo is not currently permitted and will remain outside the rules during the next four weeks of the season.
North Melbourne captain Jasmine Garner praised Kearns’ skill and backed a possible change, saying the move would be exciting to watch if allowed under the rules.
Kane also said the AFLW was considering starting next year’s season earlier to make more double headers with the AFL possible. This year’s grand final will again be held at Ikon Park. The league is focusing on double headers at its tier-one stadiums, while keeping open the possibility of exploring Marvel Stadium in the future.
Sources: The Guardian Sport.