The AFL has advised the commencement dates for the pre-season and Premiership season of the 2021 NAB AFL Women’s Competition.
The 2021 AFLW pre-season will commence with a two-week induction period beginning Wednesday 4 November 2020, before the season kicks off the week commencing Monday 1 February 2021.
At present, the 2021 AFLW Season will feature nine home-and-away matches, plus a three-week finals series.
The AFL also confirmed that the 2020 AFLW Sign and Trade Period will commence on Monday 3 August.
During this period, clubs will be permitted to sign up to 27 players, including rookie players.
Clubs have been informed they are not permitted to enter into any contracts or make any commitments to players until the commencement of the Sign and Trade Period.
St Kilda will have at least one spot to fill following the retirement of Emma Mackie at the conclusion of the 2020 Season.
The Saints currently hold pick Nos. 6 (first round), 22 (second round) and 36 (third round).
While the situation relating to COVID-19 remains a challenge for the entire football industry, the AFL advises these dates are subject to change.
Key dates for the 2020 AFLW Sign and Trade Period:
Monday August 3
AFLW Sign & Trade Period commences (12pm)
Wednesday August 12
Trade period closes (2pm)
AFLW List Lodgement #1 (4pm)
Monday August 17
Re-signing and Restricted Free Agent period closes (2pm)
AFLW List Lodgement #2 (4pm)
Friday August 21
Delisted Free Agent period closes (2pm)
AFLW List Lodgement #3 (4pm)
AFLW Draft order confirmed
