History will be made at North Hobart Oval this Saturday when the Tasmania Devils VFLW side runs out for its first ever home and away match.
The Devils women will play against the Casey Demons as a part of a double-header with the men’s side also facing Southport in its round eight VFL clash.
“I’m feeling all the emotions and itching to finally get out there after such a long build up,” Devils Vice Captain Georgia Hill said.
“It’s going to be a huge day for women’s football in Tasmania and I’m incredibly proud to be part of it.
“It’s history and we get to be the ones who start it, the ones who create a pathway and help lead the way for future generations.”
A crowd of more than 11-thousand turned out as the Tasmania Devils men’s side made its return to the VFL in March.
The women’s squad has watched the enthusiasm for the club and enormous public interest with excitement.
“It’s definitely been a long time coming, so we can’t wait to get out there and showcase our talent in front of what we’re hoping will be a massive crowd,” Hill said.
“The vibes were really high [at training] Wednesday night and there’s a lot of excitement and energy around the group at the moment.
“It’ll probably be the biggest crowd many of us have ever played in front of, which makes it even more special.”
In devastating news for the club, Tasmania will be without captain Meghan Gaffney for the entire season after the former GWS Giant ruptured her anterior cruciate ligament in a recent practice match against Carlton.
It was the third serious knee injury of Gaffney’s career. Hill will captain the side in her absence.
“It broke our hearts when it happened, especially with the timing and round one this week, but we’re all behind her as she begins another rehab journey,” Hill said.
"Gaff was, and always will be, our inaugural captain – she’s irreplaceable.
"That said, I’m obviously really proud to step up on game day and lead the group in such a historic moment for our club.”
Tasmania’s men are coming into this weekend’s match on the back of one of the VFL games of the season.
The draw with Werribee in Victoria took the team’s record to four wins, one draw and one loss.
The Devils are third on the VFL ladder, while Southport is 13th with three wins and three losses.
The VFL clash with the Sharks will be shown live on Channel 7 and Kayo from 11am with the VFLW clash also shown live on Channel 7 and Kayo from 2:30pm.