Western Bulldogs’ Ellie Blackburn, Emma Kearney and Hannah Scott have all been named in the Victorian squad to face the Allies when the two sides meet for NAB AFL Women’s State of Origin on Saturday, September 2 at Etihad Stadium.

Melbourne’s Debbie Lee and Adelaide’s Bec Goddard will coach the Victorian and Allies teams in the NAB AFL respectively.

The match will be broadcast live nationally on the Seven Network and FOXTEL/FOX FOOTY, and entry to the match will be free of charge.

Initial squads based on the 2017 Virgin Australia AFL Women’s All Australian squad have been released today with additional players to be announced at a later time. Selection is based on where a player is born, not which state they are currently playing in.

Stars of the inaugural NAB AFL Women’s season including the Adelaide Crows’ Chelsea Randall, Carlton’s Darcy Vescio and Melbourne’s Daisy Pearce have been named.

Debbie Lee said she was excited to be coaching the Victoria team.

“It’s great to see the tradition of State of Origin football continued. It has always been revered by football supporters and the women’s match will be no different, she said.

“Following the success of the NAB AFL Women’s season I would encourage all footy fans to come along and watch.

“Playing the match at Etihad Stadium will allow football supporters to see the best of the best and it will be a highlight of the Celebration of Football week.

Allies coach Bec Goddard said she was looking forward to putting the best team forward to compete against the Victorians.

“Coaching in South Australia, I understand how passionate South Australians are about their footy and nothing burns deeper than a fierce contest against Victoria,” Bec said.

“The match will be a great spectacle, it’s a great way to kick off September and showcase women’s football.” 

An Under-18 State of Origin match will be played as a curtain-raiser featuring players in the All Australian squad. The NAB AFL Women’s Under-18 All Australian team will be announced after the match.

NAB AFL Women’s State of Origin squads