Kangaroos coach Darren Crocker opens up on difficult Mia King conversation before AFLW Grand Final

Toughest Call of Darren Crocker’s Coaching Career

Darren Crocker described his discussion with midfielder Mia King before the AFLW Grand Final as one of the most difficult moments of his long coaching career.

King, a key player throughout the season, faced limited chances to push back into the team’s lineup after returning from injury. Crocker said the decision process was both strategic and emotional, acknowledging King’s dedication and the high competition within the squad.

“It was one of the toughest conversations I’ve ever had as a coach,” Crocker said. “Mia’s such a valued team member, and telling her she wouldn’t be part of the final was incredibly hard.”

Despite the disappointment, Crocker praised King for her professionalism and team spirit, emphasizing that her attitude remained exemplary throughout the finals campaign.

“Her response says everything about her character—she put the team first,” he noted.

The coach also credited the overall harmony and commitment of the North Melbourne Kangaroos squad, highlighting that difficult calls like this underline the depth and quality driving their grand final run.


Author’s summary: Darren Crocker shared the emotional challenge of leaving Mia King out of North Melbourne’s AFLW Grand Final lineup, while praising her professionalism and team-first attitude.

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7news.com.au 7news.com.au — 2025-11-28

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