North Melbourne's AFLW pre-season ramps up with an official practice match against Essendon at Avalon Airport Oval in Werribee on Saturday.
The match will be live streamed on NMFC.com.au and the North Melbourne Official App from 10.30am AEST. Entry will be free for fans to attend in person.
The game will be another important test for the Kangaroos as they prepare for Round 1.
The Roos followed a match sim win over Richmond with a short hitout against Collingwood last weekend.
The Bombers finished 14th with a 4-8 record in 2025, while the Kangaroos completed an unbeaten season to secure their second AFLW Premiership.
Second-year defender Claire Mahony is among the Kangaroo contenders hoping to stake their claims for Round 1 in this match, alongside new arrivals Maddison Torpey, Shauna McElligott, Abby Favell and Sarah Wall.
The Kangaroos begin their AFLW premiership defence with a double-header against Geelong at Marvel Stadium in the weekend of August 13-16.
AFLW practice match
North Melbourne v Essendon
When: Saturday, July 25 at 10.30pm AEST
Where: Avalon Airport Oval, Watton Street, Werribee, VIC (map)
Tickets: Entry is FREE
What's on at the ground?
Roo Squad will be in action with plenty for the kids to enjoy, including face painting, a colouring-in station and sensory activities. Plus your chance to get a photo with our mascot Ruby!
