GEELONG will open the AFLW season with a blockbuster clash against Collingwood at GMHBA Stadium.

The Cats have been placed in Conference B alongside Carlton, Collingwood, GWS and Brisbane for their inaugural AFLW season.

The fledgling side will play seven regular season games against all teams except Melbourne and North Melbourne in its first year in the league, including three home games at GMHBA Stadium.

“To have our first game at GMHBA Stadium will be an amazing experience for our players, our members and our supporters,” Geelong Cats acting CEO Sarah Albon said.

“There has been great support for our women’s program over the past two years, and now as we embark on the AFLW journey we know that our supporters will be with the team at every step.

“Our club wants to make the match day experience second to none, and playing at the best venue in the AFLW is an opportunity to provide all spectators with a memorable experience. With the three home games at family friendly times there will be big crowds supporting the Cats.

“Next year marks the 160th anniversary of our club, and the first AFLW game is a great way to start the milestone.”

All teams play all conference opponents and three cross-over games against the other pool.

Geelong will also host Carlton and Fremantle at the Cattery, while making away trips to the Whitten Oval, Norwood, Moreton Bay and Canberra.

The top two teams in each conference will qualify for a preliminary final, with the winner of each progressing to the Grand Final.

The preliminary finals will be held on Saturday March 23, while the Grand Final will be the week after.