Can't speak for CG but OH reserves have been battling for decades. Well before there were any females at the school. I realise the issue goes deeper than raw numbers but there are 1000s of boys at both schools and the male enrolment would dwarf many other old boy clubs in the VAFA. The numbers of girls v boys are miniscule by comparison. The female enrolment may be increasing but they are nothing like Wesley which would probably have close to a 50/50 split. On that point it is amazing that a legitimate co-ed school can compete year after year in the top grade. Something like 8 ‘A’ grand final appearances since 2008. Incredible record of sustained success.
The issue at Caulfield was the 30 odd Senior/Reserves players who left ($$$$) or retired after 2022. The numbers coming through the U19's are really solid and they are propping the club up, but it just takes time to fill the list back up. Having such a young club also exposes you to players travelling during Uni holidays, more than the older guys who can't get as much leave because they are working full time. The hope is that the belting the kids get playing in the Reserves each week doesn't turn them off the game and the wheel will turn.
In 2021 our Reserves would have played finals in A Grade had the season not been cancelled. They played finals in B Grade in 2019. If the kids stick together then 2025 will see numbers improve as a large group age out from U19s, but being super competitive may take a little longer.