The Hawks are heading back to Bass Coast next month, and star midfielder Emily Bates visited last week to celebrate another year of the partnership.
A premiership player with Brisbane, Bates is one of the most decorated athletes in AFLW history, having won the league best and fairest, AFL Coaches Association AFLW Champion Player of the Year, and AFL Players Association AFLW Most Valuable Player awards in Season 6-making her the first AFLW player to claim all three end-of-season honours. She took on the role of Hawthorn captain in 2024 and continues to inspire the next generation of footballers.
Emily said the VFLW players are excited to return to Wonthaggi.
The double header match returns to Wonthaggi on Sunday April 27, bringing elite-level football to the region.
The event provides a unique opportunity for young footy fans to see both VFL and VFLW teams compete on the same day and at the same venue-cementing fair access in sport from an early age.
The VFL match featuring Hawthorn affiliate Box Hill Hawks versus Port Melbourne starts at 11.05am. The VFLW match, Box Hill Hawks versus the Port Melbourne starts at 2.35pm. Entry is free, and gates open at 10.30am.
For the kids, there will be halftime Auskick games, player photo signings, and a Wonthaggi Power canteen serving refreshments. Kids who aren't part of a local club are still welcome to join in the Auskick fun on the day.
Bass Coast Shire Council entered a partnership with Hawthorn Football Club and Box Hill Hawks in 2022, and in its third year, the collaboration continues to strengthen. The partnership is focused on growing women's sport, promoting gender equality, and increasing regional sporting opportunities.
Beyond the game, the partnership has delivered coaching clinics focused on women and girls and initiatives supporting teenage girls to continue in the sport. It also aligns with Bass Coast Shire Council's Fair Access Policy and Action Plan, ensuring local sports facilities remain inclusive and accessible for all.
