North Melbourne Tasmanian Kangaroos AFLW Senior Coach Darren Crocker has been named the AFL Coaches Association AFLW Senior Coach of the Year, acknowledged by his peers as the best coach in 2025.

Crocker, who has led the team since 2021, received 37 votes to secure the award. Brisbane's Craig Starcevich finished second (26 votes), and Carlton's Matthew Buck was third (21 votes).

It comes off the back of another outstanding season for the Kangaroos, who are heading into this weekend's AFLW Grand Final against the Lions for the third straight time.

Voting was based on team performance, available resources, player talent, and team management. This is the second year running Crocker has taken out 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.” 

North Melbourne takes on the Brisbane Lions in the AFLW Grand Final this Saturday night at Ikon Park from 7.45pm AEDT.