North Melbourne has carved its name into the history books, becoming the first team to win consecutive AFLW premierships after a dominant 40-point victory over the Brisbane Lions.
The Secret Ban That Fueled Success
In a stunning post-match revelation, Kangaroos coach Darren Crocker disclosed a clandestine team rule that had been in place throughout their entire campaign. The words 'back-to-back' were strictly forbidden within the club's four walls until the final siren confirmed their place in history.
Standing proudly on the dais after the monumental win, Crocker finally broke the silence, shouting the once-banned phrase to the roaring crowd. "A little bit of a joke up on the dais at the end, because we weren't allowed to mention the words back-to-back," Crocker confessed in his post-match press conference.
A Perfect Season Culminates in Grand Final Glory
The Kangaroos' triumph on Saturday night capped off a flawless season, cementing their status as the competition's undisputed powerhouse. This victory marks an incredible unbeaten run since their heartbreaking loss to Brisbane in the 2023 decider.
For the dual premiership coach, the feeling of relief was even greater this time around. "You get to that sudden death stage... one little slip up and we may not have made a grand final," admitted the 58-year-old, who was also named the Coaches Association AFLW Senior Coach of the Year for 2025.
Crocker emphasised that his team's achievement was thoroughly deserved. "We have been the best team for the last two years, and it would have been an absolute shame not to actually have won that grand final."
Sheerin Shines as Midfield Master
In a squad brimming with elite talent, including league best-and-fairest winner Ash Riddell and gun captain Jasmine Garner, it was Eilish Sheerin who claimed best-on-ground honours with a breathtaking grand final performance.
The star midfielder set the tone from the opening bounce, finishing with an impressive stat line:
- 28 disposals
- 9 clearances
- 8 tackles
- 2 goals, including the game's opener
Sheerin was quick to pay tribute to the club's culture and her coach's leadership. "Testament to Croc, very in the moment, the whole program, very in the moment," Sheerin said. "We don't talk about what's going on outside the football club."
The midfield star echoed her coach's philosophy about maintaining focus. "Being in the moment, being present, not getting too caught up in what could happen three or four weeks down the path," she explained, highlighting the mindset that propelled them to success.
The victorious North Melbourne players will be presented to their adoring fans at 1.30pm on Sunday at their Arden Street home, celebrating a monumental achievement in Australian women's sport.
