Melbourne AFLW premiership coach Mick Stinear has quit the club and is expected to take a rival job for next season.
AFL Media’s Riley Beveridge reported Demons players had been told Stinear would be leaving in the aftermath of their thrilling preliminary final loss to North Melbourne.
Stinear has been in charge for 10 seasons and 101 games, leading the Demons to the 2023 women’s premiership.
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He’s the fourth coach to depart an AFLW side in recent weeks following Adelaide, Sydney and Geelong entering the coaching market.
MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA – NOVEMBER 15: Tyla Hanks and Mick Stinear, Senior Coach of the Demons embrace during the 2025 AFLW Second Semi Final match between the Melbourne Demons and the Adelaide Crows at Ikon Park on November 15, 2025 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Michael Willson/AFL Photos via Getty Images)Source: Getty Images
But the Cats won’t be there for long, with the Herald Sun’s Josh Barnes reporting Demons staff and players “widely expect” Stinear will defect down the highway, where he lives.
The Cats have failed to make the finals for two straight seasons while the Demons have been perennial contenders under Stinear.
He originally joined Melbourne as a men’s development coach but lost that job during Covid cuts.
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“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,” Melbourne CEO Paul Guerra said.
“To build a program from its inception and achieve the sustained success Mick has including a premiership is a testament to his character and his commitment to the program.
“We thank Mick for everything he has given to the club. He leaves a significant legacy, and we wish him, Rachel, Fitzroy and Jack nothing but the very best for the next chapter. They will always be welcome at Melbourne.”