In a significant move for the AFLW landscape, Melbourne Demons coach Mick Stinear has stepped down from his role, just two days after the team's heartbreaking preliminary final defeat.
End of an Era for Melbourne Demons
Mick Stinear has been the first and only senior coach the Melbourne AFLW team has ever known, leading the program since the competition began ten years ago. His departure marks the end of a defining chapter for the Demons' women's team.
Across his decade-long tenure, Stinear was at the helm for 101 games, steering the Demons to multiple finals series. His crowning achievement came in Season Seven, when he masterminded the club's inaugural AFLW premiership, delivering a historic flag to the Demons faithful.
A Swift Departure and Immediate Links
The coach's exit comes swiftly on the heels of Melbourne's gallant 10-point loss to the North Melbourne Kangaroos. While Stinear has not yet made a public statement regarding his decision, he has already emerged as a strong candidate for the newly vacant senior coaching position at the Geelong Cats.
Following the preliminary final, Stinear hinted at a period of reflection, stating he needed to consider the immense commitment required for the role. "I'll probably just take a breath now, get back and support the team," Stinear said. "It's obviously a big commitment to being a senior coach. I want to make sure that I'm the right person for it."
Praise and Legacy from Melbourne CEO
Melbourne CEO Paul Guerra was effusive in his praise for the outgoing coach, highlighting Stinear's profound impact. "Mick has been an exceptional leader of our AFLW program and has played a critical role in shaping the team into what it is today," Guerra said.
He emphasised the unique challenge of building a club from the ground up, noting that the sustained success and premiership are a testament to Stinear's character and commitment. The club extended its best wishes to Stinear, his wife Rachel, and their children Fitzroy and Jack, affirming they will always be welcome at the Melbourne Football Club.
The coaching carousel continues to spin, with Geelong creating their vacancy after parting ways with Dan Lowther earlier in the week. Lowther, who had been in charge since 2021, departed following two consecutive seasons without a finals appearance.
