Our Pride. Our Rules.

From 9-18 October, AFLW Pride Round returns for its seventh year, celebrating the LGBTQI+ people who helped build women's football and continue to shape our game today.

Across Rounds 9 and 10 of the 2026 NAB AFLW Season, we recognise the contribution of LGBTQI+ communities, celebrate the stars whose talent and leadership inspire the next generation, and thank the allies helping make football a place where everyone feels welcome and belongs.

Join us this Pride Round as we celebrate the people and stories that make AFLW stronger. See you at AFLW Pride Round.

2026 AFLW Pride Sherrin

Design Story by Aliesha Newman

With this design, I wanted to create something that felt different from what had been done before, while still celebrating the traditional colours of pride.

Rather than using the colours in a conventional or linear way, I wanted them to move across the football as a journey. Reflecting that idea that identity, self-discovery and acceptance rarely follow a straight path.

The words “Love”,” Authentic”, “Unapologetic” and “Love is Love” are incorporated throughout the design. These words strongly resonate with me and my own personal journey, but they also represent what I hope people feel when they see this piece. The freedom to love, to be themselves and to live authentically and unapologetically.

Hearts and flowers are woven throughout the design. While they help bring the artwork together visually, they also have a much simpler and more personal meaning. They are things that make me happy and make me smile. I wanted the football to carry that sense of joy.

Ultimately, this piece is about celebrating individuality, love and the journey of becoming comfortable in who you are.

No matter what happens in life, the authentic and unapologetic version of you is the most incredible version you can be.