The Australian Professional Leagues have announced changes to the A-League Women's game schedule to prioritize player safety during the hot summer months. Starting from December to March, there will be no 3 p.m. games, with most matches kicking off at 5 p.m. or later.
The decision to push back game times is part of the league's heat policy, aiming to shield players from extreme heat conditions. By playing later in the day, the league hopes to safeguard the well-being of players, staff, and spectators, while also enhancing the quality of play and reducing fixture changes.
In a bid to maintain and grow audience interest, midweek fixtures will be introduced during round nine, scheduled from December 27 to January 27. This move aims to capitalize on the summer break between major sporting events and attract more fans to the games.
The upcoming season, branded as the Ninja A-League, will feature 22 home-and-away fixtures, with an additional regular-season game added through Unite Round at Leichhardt Oval. To minimize simultaneous kick-offs, there will be 30 double-headers, and 10 games will be broadcast on free-to-air TV, with all matches available for live streaming.
The league will commence on November 1, with Western United facing Wellington Phoenix at Ironbark Fields in Tarneit. The season will showcase over 15 international players alongside emerging talents from Australia and New Zealand, offering fans an exciting display of football.
The finals series, featuring six teams, will kick off on the weekend of April 25, culminating in the Grand Final on May 16. The league will observe FIFA windows in October, February, and April, with adjustments made to accommodate Melbourne City's Asian Champions League commitments in March.
With a focus on player welfare, audience engagement, and competitive football, the A-League Women's upcoming season promises to deliver thrilling matches and showcase the best talents in the sport.
