North Melbourne Tasmania Kangaroos AFLW Senior Coach DARREN CROCKER has been crowned the AFL Coaches Association AFLW Senior Coach of the Year for the second-year running, further establishing his credentials as one of the competition’s best coaches.
Crocker has his team on an incredible 26-game winning streak and will lead the Kangaroos to their third consecutive Grand Final appearance this weekend as they hunt for back-to-back AFLW Premierships in the decider against fellow powerhouse Brisbane.
Crocker, who has led the team since 2021, claimed his second Senior Coach of the Year Award with 37 votes. Second place went to opposing Grand Final coach Craig Starcevich (26 votes) and third place to Carlton’s Matthew Buck on 21 votes, following the Blues’ 2025 resurgence.
The Kangaroos have again been the most dominant side of the 2025 AFLW season fighting off every challenge that has been thrown their way.
Crocker was deemed to be the best-performed Senior Coach throughout the 2025 AFLW Season, up to and including the preliminary final, with voting based on his team’s current season's performance, available resources, player talent and team management.
Crocker acknowledged the entire AFLW program in accepting the award.
“I’m the recipient and the award has my name on it but it’s a credit to all the great work that is done by our whole program, from the staff to all the players, it’s a testament to our entire program.” Crocker said.
“I’d also like to thank all the other coaches and the AFL Coaches Association for voting for me for the award.”
AFL Coaches Association CEO, Alistair Nicholson, congratulated Crocker on his season.
“Another incredible season for Crock, a 26-game winning streak, his third Grand Final appearance in a row and now back-to-back AFLCA Senior Coach of the Year Awards. What a wonderful and well-deserved recognition of his coaching performances.” Nicholson said.
“I congratulate Crock and his coaching team for their performances this season and for once again being recognised by his peers with this Award”.
ENDS
