The Australian Football League (AFL) community is in shock and mourning after the sudden death of women’s footy pioneer Sal Rees.
The 58-year-old suffered a brain aneurysm on Saturday, which caused catastrophic brain damage, and sadly passed away surrounded by her loving family, including her wife Barb, on Monday afternoon.
A True Pioneer in Women’s Football
Rees was a dedicated player and official at the Darebin Falcons, making history as the first player to reach 200 games in the VFLW.
But it was her bold move in 1995 that truly put her on the map. She became the first woman to nominate for the men’s AFL draft, prompting the AFL to change its draft rules and paving the way for women’s football to grow into the thriving competition it is today.
Breaking Barriers and Stereotypes
In a 2021 interview on AFL.com.au’s Cutting Oranges podcast, Rees recalled the challenges she faced back then. “Women’s football looked totally different to how it does now, we really struggled to get any kind of publicity,” she said. “There were a lot of articles in the media that were quite negative, and generally, people’s concept was that women shouldn’t be playing football. We loved playing, we worked hard on our skills and fitness, and with the draft coming up, I thought I’m going to nominate for this just to put it out there.”
A Lasting Legacy
Rees’ groundbreaking move sparked a national conversation about women’s roles in football. She became an icon and an inspiration to many, and her legacy will continue to inspire future generations of female footballers. Her passing has sent shockwaves through the AFL community, with tributes pouring in from all corners.
Tributes Pour In
Carlton AFLW superstar Darcy Vescio praised Rees as an “amazing person” who “always lit up the room she was in.” AFL CEO Andrew Dillon described Rees as a “trailblazer” whose vision, determination, and passion helped make the AFLW competition possible. Close friend and fellow VFLW life member Leesa Catto remembered Rees as an “unheralded Australian warrior” who “touched hearts and minds wherever she went.”
A Life Well-Lived
Rees’ club, the Darebin Falcons, where she is a life member, posted a heartfelt tribute on social media. “Gone too soon, Sal was an important pioneer of women’s sport and particularly critical for the establishment and ongoing leadership for our club,” they wrote. The club’s Person of the Year award is even named in her honor, a testament to her lasting impact on the sport.
Sal Rees may be gone, but her legacy will live on in the hearts of the AFL community and beyond. She will be deeply missed, but her contributions to women’s football will never be forgotten.