Mercury (Hobart)

A’s now for all leagues

- MARCO MONTEVERDE

AUSTRALIA’S top-flight men’s and women’s football competitio­ns will both be known as the A-League as part the sport’s domestic rebranding.

In a move to further solidify football’s claim of being Australian’s most inclusive sport, the new A-Leagues brand will unite men’s, women’s and youth leagues under the one banner.

The three competitio­ns will be known as A-League Men, A-League Women and A-League Youth.

It means the national women’s competitio­n will no longer be called the W-League in a move to strengthen gender equality in Australian football.

“It’s no longer men’s football, or women’s football, it’s just football,” Australian Profession­al Leagues managing director Danny Townsend said.

“We’re committed to growing the game in Australia – for everyone.

“That means delivering a worldclass experience on and off the pitch, and inspiring the next generation of A-Leagues superstars to fulfil their highest potential.

“This is just the beginning of our ambitious, long-term vision for the growth of football in Australia.”

The A-Leagues brand is “aimed at a more equitable approach and tapping

into the country’s youngest and most diverse fan base”.

APL chief commercial officer Ant Hearne said: “We know our fans live and breathe football, so we want to create the best possible experience in the stadium, at home, on the move, through gaming or fashion or food.

“However fans want to connect with football, we will deliver.”

 ?? ?? Brisbane’s Katrina Gorry controls the ball. The national women’s competitio­n will soon be under the A-League banner. Picture: Getty
Brisbane’s Katrina Gorry controls the ball. The national women’s competitio­n will soon be under the A-League banner. Picture: Getty

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