A future Sydney Swans women’s team moved a step closer this week, with 240 girls trying out for the Youth Girls Program as part of the QBE Sydney Swans Academy.

The trials, being held on Monday and Tuesday at the SCG, were open to girls aged 11-12 years who reside in Sydney’s Academy zone.

Successful athletes will take part in the inaugural 12-week program commencing in March 2018.

The Youth Girls Program will grow in the coming years with tailored programs for additional age-groups.

Head of the QBE Sydney Swans Academy Chris Smith said the program will provide its young female footballers with the best opportunity to play for a future Sydney Swans AFLW team.

“Our Youth Girls Program will identify female athletes, expose them to AFL and provide a clear development pathway to play AFL at a professional level,” Smith said.

“The program will also have a strong mentoring component and an environment that allows talented girls to develop not only as athletes, but peer leaders, in all areas of their lives.

“This is a significant development for the Academy and one that we hope will help broaden female participation at all levels of our game.”

QBE Chief Customer Officer Bettina Pidcock said that having partnered with the Sydney Swans for 31 years, they’re so proud to be supporting the Academy in this exciting new chapter.

“The QBE Sydney Swans Academy has already been hugely successful in developing young talent and we’re excited to see that program extended to the up and coming young female talent from across New South Wales.

“Our best wishes to all the participants and we look forward to welcoming the first Academy players to QBE family in the new year.”