TAL says it will expand its partnership with the AFLW in the second year of its league sponsorship.

The life insurer’s backing includes off-field programs such as career opportunities and mentoring, and sponsorship of the league doctor and physios.

It says it will work to improve access to its TAL Assister program, which funds leadership training for emerging AFLW talents. TAL aims to back 12 new scholarships for players throughout the season.

The partnership also connects AFLW players to flexible employment opportunities through Workplay, a professional network designed to address athletes’ educational and employment challenges.

“Our goal is to play a part in helping AFLW players to achieve in their careers, on and off the field,” TAL chief customer and brand officer Alex Homer said. “In sport, an assist symbolises teamwork and enabling others to shine. What we wanted to highlight in this campaign – and what we heard from AFLW players – is while an assist on the field is one thing, in life, it can often mean so much more.” 

TAL has a three-year partnership with the AFLW, plus teams including Sydney Swans, GWS Giants and Hawthorn.