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Lions' only AFLW coach Starcevich extends for two years

3 minute read

Craig Starcevich, one of only two inaugural AFLW coaches still in charge of their teams, has extended with Brisbane for another two years.

CRAIG STARCEVICH.
CRAIG STARCEVICH. Picture: Daniel Carson/AFL Media/Getty Images

Craig Starcevich has taken the lead over Mick Stinear to see which inaugural AFLW coach will be in charge for the longest.

Starcevich has extended at Brisbane for two more years, taking him to the end of 2025, while Stinear signed a deal last October that keeps him in charge at Melbourne at least until the end of the 2024 season.

They are the only two coaches from the first women's season in 2017.

Starcevich coached the Lions to their only premiership in 2021 and two seasons later the Demons won their first flag under Stinear, with the reigning premiers beating Brisbane in the grand final.

The two coaches have their teams well placed for another premiership, with second-placed Melbourne hosting North Melbourne this Sunday in one qualifying final and minor premiers Adelaide taking on Brisbane on Saturday in the other.

"I feel very privileged to have coached our team for the last eight seasons and appreciate the opportunity from the club for another two seasons," Starcevich said in a club statement.

"AFLW has come a long way in the last seven years and to see the growth of the game has been exciting. There are many opportunities ahead of us and I'm grateful to be able to be part of that in whatever way.

"I feel our footy club in general, is in a very strong position at the moment.

"Our playing group has changed over the years, but we've been lucky to coach an amazing group this season and we're excited to see how far we can take it in this finals series."

The Lions have continued to be a force despite the loss of All-Australian players Emily Bates, Greta Bodey and Jesse Wardlaw from last season.

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