For an entire season, North Melbourne coach Darren Crocker avoided saying three particular words: “back-to-back.” He didn’t want the phrase to distract his team or create premature talk about repeating their 2023 AFLW premiership success.
After the Kangaroos’ stunning victory that sealed another AFLW flag, Crocker allowed himself to finally say them.
“It’s been on my mind the whole year, but I didn’t want to jinx us,” he said, smiling after the game. “Now we can finally say it — back-to-back.”
The coach praised his players’ resilience and discipline, noting that their focus, team unity, and hunger to prove themselves were the key factors behind the repeat title. The milestone cemented North Melbourne’s reputation as one of the most consistent powerhouses in the competition.
“They’ve set a new standard for what belief and hard work can achieve,” Crocker added. “This group deserves every bit of this success.”
The victory not only capped an extraordinary season but also underscored how North Melbourne managed to sustain excellence through preparation and humility. Players and fans alike described the win as a moment of redemption and pride for the club’s growth trajectory over the past few years.
“It’s not just about winning again; it’s about how we got here,” said captain Emma Kearney. “We stayed true to who we are.”
The celebration reflected a mix of relief, joy, and respect for the journey—a hallmark of a team that has matured through both success and adversity.
Author’s summary: Darren Crocker finally uttered “back-to-back” after North Melbourne’s AFLW triumph, capturing the team’s disciplined drive for consecutive premiership glory.