Football West CEO Jamie Harnwell has welcomed today’s independent report which confirms football is again the most popular participation team sport in Western Australia.
The Australian Sports Commission’s (ASC) 2025 AusPlay Report shows football has more than 146,000 organised participants – almost 24,000 more than the second highest team sport (Australian rules).
Football has the most male players and junior players of any team sport in the state, while it is third for female participation (behind netball and basketball).
Football is also tops when it comes to casual participation, with over 200,000 players. That is 40,000 more than next-best basketball.
CLICK HERE TO SEE THE AUSPLAY RESULTS
Football is also the most popular team sport nationally, with more than 1.9 million Australians engaged with football last year across various formats.
“The results published by AusPlay make great reading for Football West, our clubs and associations, and everyone else involved in the sport in WA,” Mr Harnwell said.
“We are the most diverse sport in Western Australia, and this is reflected by the record registrations we have seen.
“Football West prides itself in offering something for everyone, from the MiniRoos and the junior and senior competitions, to the girls-only programs, futsal and the inclusive programs delivered by the Football Futures Foundation.”
Mr Harnwell did caution that the increased numbers bring greater demands.
“Record figures bring more expectation, which is why we continue to work closely with all levels of government to secure funding for better facilities,” he said.
“We don’t only want to attract new participants, we want to retain them. Football is more than what happens on the pitch, it is also about making lifelong friendships and enjoying good physical and mental health.”