Victoria University (VU) has been elevated to co-major partner of the Western Bulldogs AFLW team, further strengthening both its long-term allegiance with the Club and its prominent support of both our AFLW team and women's sports more broadly.
The enhanced partnership will see the VU logo proudly adorn the front of the AFLW playing guernsey.
As part of VU'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.
VU Vice-Chancellor Professor Adam Shoemaker said he was proud to be strengthening the support of the AFLW team.
"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," Professor Shoemaker said.
The VU 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 CEO Ameet Bains was similarly thrilled.
"We at the Bulldogs are delighted to elevate our partnership with Victoria University, one of our longest standing Club partners," he said.
Over the years, VU 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.
VU 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 31 August against the GWS Giants at Manuka Oval.
