Celebration and solidarity at Bulldogs AFLW Pride Round 2026

It was a night to represent, recognise and show solidarity and Pride at Western Bulldogs’ Whitten Oval last Friday, home of the very first Pride Round in 2018.

Victoria University (VU), a major partner of Western Bulldogs, has been match day sponsor for the Western Bulldogs AFLW for four years running. 

VU Chief Wellbeing Officer Carol Corzo said “Pride Round is about celebrating the LGBTQIA+ people who helped build women’s football and continue to shape the game today.”  

“It is incredibly powerful. It is an opportunity to recognise the contribution of players, supporters, advocates and allies, while reaffirming that everyone deserves to feel welcome, respected and that they belong.” 

4,327 fans attended this year’s event, the biggest Whitten Oval crowd in five years. The night had a buzzing festival atmosphere with food and activities including rainbow hair extensions from Rumours are True salon (owned by VU alum Sarah Scolaro), face painting, Pride Flag Puzzle competition and performances. 

VU student and Queer Collective President Elijah Hartshorne, who tossed the coin before the game, said he had an “amazing time seeing the joy and sense of belonging that the community was showcasing.” 

“From the families picking out their pronoun badges, to the drag queens and kings and queens bringing the energy to the stage, it's hard not to have a smile and groove along to the overwhelming love.  

“It's so important for our Queer community to see us welcomed as our authentic selves in education, in sports, and by the general public. We felt so much love and support from Victoria University, Western Bulldogs, and by the lovely attendees at the match.  

Please keep showing your support for us, as we are powerful when we are united against hate and discrimination. We can't wait for next year's Pride Round. Up the pups!" 

Playing proudly 

As well as the celebrations off the field, it was an exciting night for Doggies fans with the Bulldogs winning the match decisively, beating Essendon by 43 points. 

Six Bulldogs AFLW players are currently studying at VU and one player, Elisabeth Georgostathis, is a VU alum. 

Key forward Analea McKee, who is completing a Bachelor of Physical Education and Sport Practice at VU, said she thought that Western Bulldogs’ and Victoria University’s support for Pride Round was ‘really special.’ 

"To me, Pride means everyone being included – no matter how you identify, you're welcome in this space.” 

Interested in future Pride events? 

Find out more at LGBTIQA+ and gender diverse inclusionand the VU Student Union.