AFLW Senior Coach Mick Stinear has made the difficult decision to depart the club after 10 seasons at the helm.

Stinear, who became Melbourne’s inaugural AFLW Senior Coach ahead of the competition’s first season in 2017, has been instrumental in building the women's program from the ground up.

Across Stinear’s 10 seasons, he coached 101 games, led the Demons to multiple finals series, and guided the club to its historic inaugural AFLW premiership in Season Seven.

This also includes a remarkable record of finishing inside the top four in eight of his ten seasons in charge.

Stinear said it was the right time to prioritise his family after giving his all to the program over the past decade.

“This is the right decision for my family and I after 10 amazing years at the club,” Stinear said.

“The demands of coaching at this level are enormous, and while I have absolutely loved every minute of my time at Melbourne, I walk away knowing I have given everything I can.

“I have been surrounded by quality people every step of the way. The connection within this group is what makes Melbourne special, and that is something that I will miss.

“To build something from scratch and to top it off with a premiership in 2022 is something I will always be extremely proud of.”

Melbourne CEO Paul Guerra praised Stinear’s impact and legacy on the program over a long period of time.

“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,” 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.”