In Australia, there currently isn't a "week in, week out" sport played by women that is in the media, besides 1 game of womens netball on the ABC which is not complimented by further advertising or Netball shows.
If the WNSL and Matilda matches are to be shown (even merely 1 game a week), and it is to be complimented with highlights, results, tables, and a "footy show" featuring all the goals, interviews, and jokes. Put together with news reports, promotion and advertising: Suddenly the WNSL can reach all its fans Australia wide, and even overseas.
It doesn't have to be extensive like what the AFL enjoys. It just has to be something.
In the age of technology, a sport cant survive without some form of media support. Without media the only people who can talk about the game are the people who saw it.
More proof is the old myth of: If people cared about women's football, then why haven't they put it on TV? If the majority of the perception on what is a successful sport is what is in the media, then it is vital that womens football uses some form of media to eliminate that myth.
Also each week in the AFL, a player or a coach is able to provoke the other team via the media which might lead to rivalries (sellouts), or give your team the edge.
A stadium's capacity might be 40,000. But with media it is extended to broadcast signal. Not only that but more people will see the game, recognise the game, support the game, and even go to the game. With all the rivalries, key players, and even idols beamed into people's loungeroom each week, more people will take an active role in women's football, be it as a supporter or a player.
The media is an essential tool for nurturing the growth of women's football.
