Victoria University elevates support of Western Bulldogs AFLW team

Victoria University has strengthened its support of the Western Bulldogs AFLW team, becoming co-major partner, further boosting both its long-term allegiance with the Club and its prominent support of the AFLW team and women’s sports more broadly.

The enhanced partnership will see the Victoria University adorn the front of the AFLW playing guernsey.

As part of Victoria University’s commitment to women’s sport, the Victoria University Education and Professional Development Program will be introduced as part of the partnership elevation - with an aim to support Western Bulldogs AFLW players, coaches and staff with education opportunities while participating at the elite level.

Announcing the enhanced sponsorship, Victoria University Vice-Chancellor Professor, Adam Shoemaker stated “we are world leaders in research and advocacy for women and sport. Many of the current Western Bulldogs AFLW players list are current VU or TAFE students, so it’s clear our support for female athletes extends well beyond what happens on the field.”

The Victoria University Education and Professional Development Program will be dedicated to empowering women in football by creating valuable opportunities for personal and professional growth. It’s not just available to players, but also extends to coaches and staff, offering the chance to develop their leadership skills.

Bulldogs Chief Executive, Ameet Bains added “we at the Bulldogs are delighted to elevate our partnership with Victoria University, one of our longest standing Club partners.”

Over the years, Victoria University has provided an incredible amount of support for our football programs and facilities, including a focus on our women’s program. With VU’s enhanced support, we will invest further in education opportunities for our AFLW players, enriching their lives and careers during their playing days and beyond, while also helping position the Western Bulldogs as a destination Club.

Victoria University and the Bulldogs first joined forces in the 1980s, forging one of the Club’s most integrated and successful partnerships. It was renewed last year for a further five years.

The Bulldogs will kick off their 2024 NAB AFLW campaign on Saturday 31st August against the GWS Giants at Manuka Oval.

Image shows (from left) Western Bulldogs player Isabella Grant, Western Bulldogs President Kylie Watson-Wheeler, Western Bulldogs AFLW Captain Deanna Berry, Victoria University’s Professor Adam Shoemaker, Western Bulldogs player Elizabeth Georgostathis Victoria University Player Student Ambassador, Western Bulldogs’ Ameet Bains and Western Bulldogs Victoria University Player Student Ambassador Analea McKee.