The skill level and participation rates are set to soar in 2026’s South East Queensland school girl Australian rules football competitions.
The Catholic Secondary Schoolgirls' Sports Association (CaSSSA) competition, which takes place on Wednesday and the Queensland Girls Secondary Schools Sports Association (QGSSSA) on Saturdays have already started, with the rivalries fierce amongst the schools.
CaSSSA Executive Officer, Margo Mackintosh, said the competition has continued to grow this year, providing more opportunities for girls to participate.
"CaSSSA team nominations in the Senior A competition have remained steady compared with 2025, while the overall standard of play continues to rise each season," said Mackintosh.
"CaSSSA AFL fixtures provide a vital platform for students to develop their skills in a supportive yet competitive environment, building confidence and capability as they progress towards club competitions and representative pathways."
QGSSSA Executive Officer, Amy Anderton, shared a similar sentiment for the QGSSSA competition.
"QGSSSA Senior AFL continues to thrive because it strikes a strong balance between performance and participation," said Anderton.
"We're seeing outstanding on-field standards while also providing meaningful opportunities for students to grow their love of the game, connect with community football and pursue elite pathways.
"It's a competition that develops both players and people.”
AFL Queensland's Participation and Operations Manager, Kieran Daley, said both competitions have grown this year with more opportunities for girls to play.
“2026 will see more than 200 girls participate in CaSSSA football, and just under 400 girls in the QGSSA competition," he said.
"The growth in these competitions is incredible for the future of women and girls football.
“Since the beginning of these competitions, we have seen the skill, ability and passion grow and we can't wait to see what's in store this season.”
Learn more about our school competitions here.
