The collapse of the Perth Metro Football League's Sunday competition has left more than 60 First Nations women without a place to play AFL.
The season was cut short last week, with the community league halting its 4-team women’s competition due to low participation.
The decision has left the Koongamia and Queen's Park football teams in limbo. An application by the teams to join a different league has also been denied.
The move has been devastating for dedicated players like Justyne Eades, who played for the Queens Park Bulldogs.
"I have seriously considered not playing footy if I cannot do it around the club,” she told NITV News.
Ms Eades daughter Danielle Kickett was similarly upset, saying the club had introduced her to the sport, and that it gave her a chance to socialise with family.
Danielle Kickett (L) and her mother Justyne Eades. Source: Supplied
"I am a little bit different [in that] this is the first time playing for a club or playing football in general. I came along to play alongside my sisters.
I never thought I'd be able to play football... [but] coming into a safe environment for me means that I continue to play," said Danielle.
Shakira Westberg plays for Koongamia. She also enjoys the family environment the tournament provided.
"I wouldn't be able to play with mum and aunties and all that who I feel safe around," said Shakira.
Many in Perth’s local AFL community are asking why the Perth Football League cannot simply add the teams to their competition.
Nearly 500 people have signed a community-led petition supporting the teams' entry into the league, but Koongamia Football Club were advised it would not happen.
Amanda (L) with her daughter Shakira Westberg. Source: Supplied
"We are not in a position to accept either of these teams for the 2022 season," said Ben Haywood, CEO of the Perth Football League in a statement.
However, Mr Haywood said the league would be “happy to facilitate conversations between existing clubs who are struggling with player numbers and both Queens Park and Koongamia."
Koongamia Football Club President Chris Ryder said splitting the two sides in to other teams would see the First Nations players leave the game.
“Cultural appropriateness for the ladies is definitely not going to happen," he said.
"We are going to see about 60 ladies not playing football because they are not going to feel comfortable.
Koongamia President Chris Ryder. Source: Supplied
“It would be devastating if the girls weren’t able to continue on with their football.”
WA Senate candidate Megan Krakouer said the decision could have severe, even life-threatening impacts.
"It's about love, hope and doing the right thing," she told NITV News.
"Without football in their lives I cannot rest easy. I fear that families will hurt.
"My greatest fear is that we could lose someone," said Megan.
