Equal the Contest

MITCH NIVALIS | AUSTRALIA | 2023 | 77'

When the rules exclude you, rewrite them.

When a filmmaker joins a new local women’s footy club in central Victoria, a simple desire to play becomes a complex journey of inclusion and belonging. An unexpected turn of events means the team has to fight to play. Their campaign challenges age-old traditions and joins the wider movement for gender equity.

"Maybe this is bigger than just a couple of women and gender diverse people having a kick. Maybe we've got an opportunity here to make real change."

Alana Wearne, Club Vice President

"AFL Victoria are doing a lot of work in supporting coach development across Victoria... We've got a bit of catch up to do, the men have got to play our great game for a really long time and it's great that there's some really good funding and some really good initiatives that are helping to support the growth and evolution of women in football."

Natalie Wood, AFLW coach, Essendon

Credits

Director: Mitch Nivalis
Producers: Tony Coombs, Mitch Nivalis
Impact Producer: Alex Kelly