Not a bad idea.
1. AFL games are very expensive. AFLW obviously less.
2. Easier logistics as mentioned.
3. Arguably there is more of an opening for AFLW.
4. Soccer participation has decreased 14% in the USA in the last 3 years. One of the reasons stated is the model (of excellence) that MLS has chosen is NOT as cheap as everybody presumed. The USAFL motto "fun and fitness" is appealing.

 Harley/Peter.

I think they could/should be aiming for greater numbers of spectators by staging a full, ridgy didge, proper "International" between Freedom (USA) and Northern Lights(Canada) at the same time/same place.

It would not just be catering for Aussies in USA as spectators but would bring in both Canadian and American AFL fans/followers.

Since the AFL would have TV coverage of the event anyway the International match could also be showcased on TV in USA, Canada and in Aussie. What a boost to International footy it would be. It wouldn't hurt if they could find some way to get all the North American women that are playing in Australia now back there to take part some how or play in the International. After all, there is/or has been quite a few American and Canadian ladies giving it a go in Aussie over the last few years. Katie Klatt is one that comes to mind.

Only problem that I see is it will be hard to convince the AFL (AFLW not so much) that such an event is much more than just another player pathway to the AFLW and spend a bit more on promoting our game internationally.

Promotion, Promotion, PROMOTION !!!! has the AFL got the ticker to see it thru and even follow it up in Canada later in the year or next year 2021 (even if the event doesn't run at a profit) or if it did, could it stomach leaving half the profit for the USAFLω

 Hopefully WARF Radio can get in on the act somehow as well. ;-)

Just to add to my previous comment, Canada (Northern Lights) and USA (Freedom) are currently ranked 3rd and 6th respectively on our unofficial World Ranking Scheme and from what I saw at IC17 the standard of an full "International" between these two nations wouldn't be too hard to watch even from an Aussie's point of view.

Are we (AFL in particular) actually only trying to increase the audience size (TV viewer numbers) by holding "promotional" AFL & AFLW matches overseas (eg China, New Zealand & UK) or increasing the numbers actually playing our great game overseas as well.

I wonder if there has been any research done on whether there has been an increase in participation in China since Port Adelaide's foray into China. (I believe Port are sponsors of the South China AFLeague)

I have to agree 100% with Mr Holden that an AFLW match in USA/Canada as suggested is a damned good idea but must include a local "particpation" match and the "whole event" be promoted both here in Aussie and USA/Canada and it must not be just a "one off".

Unfortunately, a solitary country based Aussie Rules Football follower such as I, won't see his opinion make even a ripple in the waters of the world of AFL :-(