“It was a big thing in casting to make sure we got actors who were on board with the story and were respectful.”

“And kicking a footy is a regular thing to do before rehearsal."

To further assist in understanding the challenges and commitment required to pull on the boots each week in the ever-improving AFLW competition, the cast of FIERCE had the opportunity to visit GWS Women’s side headquarters.

“It was mind-blowing. The sheer athleticism of professional athletes- it’s something else,” she said.

“To see what it is actually like and to see the world [of AFLW] was so invaluable.”

This experience further assisted Richardson’s understanding of the game of AFL, a sport that she was unfamiliar until recently.

“I didn’t know too much about AFL. I literally have Aussie Rules for Dummies next to my bed!”

But Richardson has done her work and proved her worth to play the leading role in FIERCE. 

And while she believes there are many different messages the show portrays, she has no doubt that FIERCE will act as a catalyst for men and women to speak up and find the balance AFL- and life requires.

“It poses questions and presents the audience with problems to wrestle with. The play is asking ‘do men have any more right to the experience than women?’”

“It opens conversations. That’s its contribution to its issues around gender.”

For more information, or to purchase tickets to this ground-breaking performance, Written by Jane e Thompson and Directed by Janine Watson, head to: https://www.redlineproductions.com.au/fierce