NAB AFLW Round 9
Western Bulldogs v Essendon
Friday 9 Octoberr, 7:15pm AEDT
Mission Whitten Oval, Footscray • Wurundjeri/Boonwurrung
Broadcast: 7Mate/7Plus, Fox Footy/Kayo/Binge
Join us this Friday night as we kick off Pride Round, celebrating and embracing our LGBTQIA+ community.Â
Don’t miss the chance to be part of a night that embraces pride, inclusion and community.
Key Match Timings
6pm - Gates and fan zone open
6:30pm - Team entry
6:35pm - Matchday welcome by MC, Ruby Slippers
6:50pm - Pride performance
6:55pm - Acknowledgment of Country
7:13pm - Coin toss
7:15pm - Match commences
Quarter Time: Pride Patrol Performance
Half-Tiime: Pride Patrol Performance
Full Time: Kick 2 Kick Post-match
What's on at Mission Whitten Oval
Expect a night full of colour, joy, and connection - with drag queens, puppies, spectacular performances, and great vibes.
As part of the Pride Patrol performances at quarter and half time, keep an eye out for roaming Drag Queens, stiltwalkers, the Rainbow archway and stage performances!
Our fan zone will be open from 6pm, with lots of fun activities including:
- face painting
- Free samosas from Sabrini Foods
- Macca's inflatables
- VU hair braiding
- badge making
Introducing our 2026 Pride Guernsey
Our 2026 AFLW Pride guernsey designed by Chelsea Adamson, a proud Wotjobaluk and LGBTQIA+ woman from Wergaia country.
The 2026 design is inspired by Rainbow Mob, celebrating the intersection of First Nations and LGBTQIA+ identities.
The guernsey is now available to purchase in-store or online from the Bulldogs Shop, as well as on game-day!
Getting to Mission Whitten Oval
It’s never been easier to get to the ground with more trains than ever heading to West Footscray Train Station thanks to the new Metro Tunnel. The platform is less than 100 metres from the gate.
Plan your journey ahead of time using the PTV Journey Planner.
Please note that that there is limited on-street parking.
Gate Entry
The primary public entry points are:
- Gate 1 – Located near Barkly Street
- Gate 3 – Located at Cross StreetÂ
Please note: Gate 2 is reserved for VIPs, staff, and accredited individuals only.
AFLW members can enter via Gate 2, for easy access to the Bulldogs Social Members Lounge, located on Level 2.
Accessibility Information
Mission Whitten Oval has the following facilities available to all visitors:
- Multi-faith prayer room
- Parent room with changing facilities
- Changes Places facility suitable for individuals with high support needs
- Elevated disability viewing spots located around the venue
People with accessibility needs are encouraged to access the venue via Gate 2 (Whitten Avenue via the Café/main reception).
Not an AFLW Member?
The best way to support the Club is to Go All In On W - sign up as a W member today!
Score access to every home game & bring a friend for free! That's two tickets to six home games for only $39.Â
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