MELBOURNE premiership coach Mick Stinear announced he would be stepping down from the Dees after a decade in the role. One of only two foundation coaches remaining in the league – with Brisbane’s Craig Starcevich – Stinear won a premiership and guided the Dees to a top four finish in an incredible eight seasons.

Stinear coached his 100th game in the semi-final against Adelaide, which meant the Dees mentor ended his career at the elite level with 101 games and countless memories in the red and blue.

While he said he would undoubtedly miss the role, it was now time to focus on his family knowing he had given everything he could to the Dees’ program.

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

“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 Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Paul Guerra thanked Stinear for his tenure and highlighted the impact the inaugural Dees coach had on the club as a whole.

“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.”

Melbourne becomes one of four clubs in the hunt for new senior coaches after Adelaide’s Matthew Clarke– announced prior to the season – and Sydney’s Scott Gowans both stepped down, while Geelong parted ways with Dan Lowther.