Western Bulldogs 2025 NAB AFLW Season at Mission Whitten Oval

Back in 2013, the Western Bulldogs played the first-ever game of women’s representative AFL, in an exhibition match against Melbourne. In 2017, it helped pioneer the AFLW competition, with stars like Ellie Blackburn leading the charge both on and off the field. Now, the Doggies are gearing up for one of their biggest AFLW seasons yet – and whether you’re a long-time supporter or just dipping your toes into women’s footy, Mission Whitten Oval is the place to soak up the atmosphere.

On Saturday August 16, the opening game is a celebration of the trailblazers of women’s footy, as the Doggies take on fellow founding team Melbourne Demons in the Pioneer Party. Expect high-energy pre-game tunes from DJ Tigerlily and Nat Sax, roaming giveaways, a charm bracelet-making station and puppy playpen for the kids (and dog lovers) and, of course, hard-hitting footy action from stars like Blackburn, Jess Fitzgerald and Alice Edmonds. First bounce is at 7.35pm, so grab your red, white and blues and settle in for a Saturday night under the lights of Mission Whitten Oval.

On Saturday August 30 is Indigenous Round, with the Bulldogs hosting Hawthorn in a 7.15pm clash promising on-field action as well as a celebration of culture and community. There’ll be family-friendly entertainment and plenty of chances to meet your favourite players.

And the big home games don’t stop there. Round six sees the Dogs take on 2024 grand finalists Brisbane Lions in a Sunday afternoon showdown on September 21, while footy fever hits a season high ahead of the men’s decider with a Grand Final eve special against Collingwood on September 26 – complete with entertainment, giveaways and that Grand Final buzz. And in round nine, the Dogs host their beloved annual Pride Game against Essendon on October 10.

Tickets start at just $15, making it the perfect excuse to back the mighty Daughters of the West on home turf this season.

This article is produced by Broadsheet in partnership with Western Bulldogs AFLW.