Brisbane Lions AFLW senior coach Craig Starcevich has further committed to the Club by extending his time at Brighton Homes Arena for a further season until the end of 2026.

Fresh off his third grand final appearance in as many years, the Club has backed the two-time AFLW Premiership coach to guide the Lions in the hunt for further success.

Starcevich has put pen to paper as the Lions have returned to begin pre-season ahead of the 2025 AFLW season.

“I feel very privileged to have coached our team for the last nine seasons and appreciate the opportunity from the Club to lead this great group until the end of the 2026 season,” Starcevich said.  

“AFLW has come a long way over that time and to see the growth of the game, particularly in QLD, has been exciting. There are many opportunities ahead of us and I’m grateful to be able to be part of that.

“I feel our footy club in general, is in a very strong position.  

“Our playing group has changed over the years with expansion, but we now have a stable, hard-working group with an amazing culture led by our experienced leaders. I’m just as excited to see what we can achieve this season as when I first started.”

Lions Head of Women’s Football, Breeanna Brock, who has been by Starcevich’s side since the competition’s inception, spoke on how much he has done for the game.

“Craig has been a pioneer of women’s football long before the AFLW competition, particularly here in Queensland,” she said.

“He’s played a pivotal role in the continued development of our talent here in Queensland and he is big reason why our group continues to have success each year at AFLW level.

“He’s builds great relationships with staff and players alike.  

“I know our playing group love playing for him each week and will be very excited to continue to run out for Craig.  

“It’s incredible that every year he just keeps getting the best out of them.”