As the 2025 AFLW season enters its pointy end, the race for the premiership is heating up, but for 12 clubs, the campaign has already come to a close. Some showed glimpses of promise, others endured seasons they'll want to forget, and a few are right on the verge of something special.
From veteran-heavy lists in need of a reset to rising teams bursting with untapped potential, we've handed out our pass or fail verdicts for every side that's bowed out of the finals race -- analysing what worked, what didn't, and where they need to turn their focus this offseason.
Note: This will be updated throughout the finals as each club's season comes to a close.
Adelaide
Ladder: 6th
Win-loss: 7-5 (112%)
Result: FAIL
For the first time in their AFLW history, Adelaide felt less like one of the best and more like a team simply fighting to stay relevant. They scraped into finals with a Round 12 win, but their elimination in the second week confirmed what many had suspected -- the era of Crows inevitability is over. Once feared for ruthlessness, structure and maturity, Adelaide now resemble a side caught between eras, one that is experienced enough to compete, but not dynamic enough to dominate.
Across the season, Adelaide's strengths remained familiar, they were disciplined behind the ball, among the top two for intercept possessions, and ranked highly for pressure around the forward half. But the difference between this version of the Crows and former premiership sides was clear: they can no longer turn control into damage. Their scoring power has dropped sharply. While they averaged 52.1 points per game in 2023, it fell to 45.7 in 2024 and dipped again to just 43.2 in 2025, the lowest of any Crows finals side. They rely heavily on repeat entries and stoppage creation, but lack the speed, unpredictability and forward craft of the competition's top-scoring teams like North Melbourne, Melbourne or Brisbane.
Ebony Marinoff was once again superb, leading the team for disposals and tackling pressure, but was forced to shoulder too much of the midfield load. Anne Hatchard had strong periods without being consistently damaging, while players like Teah Charlton and Caitlin Gould showed flashes but couldn't produce sustained influence across four quarters. Adelaide's midfield remains ball-winning but not explosive, and when finals pressure rose, they lacked a true burst player -- the type North have in Garner, Melbourne in Hanks or Brisbane in Anderson.
Their semifinal loss to Melbourne summed up their season. They were strong structurally, winning first-possession and absorbing pressure, but when the Demons surged late, Adelaide couldn't counterpunch. They were outnumbered at ground level, struggled to defend space, and couldn't stem scoreboard momentum. Despite Chelsea Biddell and Niamh Kelly being standout performers in the back half, the cracks showed: older, more predictable, and less adaptable than they once were.
This is no longer a dynasty, it's a transition. Young players like Zoe Prowse, Keeley Kustermann and Brooke Smith have shown promise, but haven't yet proven they can take over from the Marinoff-Hatchard-Randall era. Coach Matthew Clarke's departure and what could be followed by some integral players officially marks the end of the original Adelaide era. What comes next will depend on whether the Crows can reshape not just their personnel, but their style entirely.
They've still got the fight, but their aura seems gone.
Off-season needs:
A dynamic midfield burst player with speed and line-breaking ability to support Marinoff and Hatchard
More unpredictable forward movement -- less stoppage reliance, more agility and creative scoring options
Strategic list renewal -- transition from veteran-driven structure to youth-led identity
Rebuild offensive system to generate marks inside 50 rather than repeated turnover entries
New coaching direction to modernise their style -- faster, bolder, less risk-averse
Brisbane
Ladder: 3rd
Win-loss: 9-3 (161.8%)
Result: PASS
Brisbane's season ends in familiar territory, another Grand Final appearance but the path they took to get there makes 2025 a successful A club repeatedly stripped of players by rivals continues to defy the odds, appearing in seven of the last ten Grand Finals, and once again proving they are the AFLW's benchmark for resilience and culture.
They didn't open the year like a premiership contender. Many predicted the Lions to slide, and back-to-back home losses first to Hawthorn, then a shock defeat to Carlton, suggested that slide had begun. Their pressure numbers were down, their scoring profile flattened, and they conceded more turnover scores than usual. But once Brisbane rediscovered their identity, they flipped their season on its head.
What followed was seven straight wins, powered by their trademark forward-half pressure, turnover scoring and relentless work rate. They finished top-four in inside 50s (40.6), contested possessions (122.1) and pressure rating, returning to the chaotic, suffocating style that has defined their era. Their preliminary final win over Melbourne was their best performance of the season -- structured, ferocious, and opportunistic.
A major driver of that resurgence was Belle Dawes, who at only 24 has become the heartbeat of the club. Her competitiveness, emotional spark and ability to drag Brisbane into contests made her a genuine barometer, and her leadership evolution has her tracking as a future captain. Alongside her, Sophie Conway, Bre Koenen, Lily Postlethwaite, Ally Anderson and Courtny Hodder who had a breakout year with more midfield minutes.
But the Grand Final exposed their one vulnerability, key personnel losses they simply couldn't cover. Dakota Davidson, Taylor Smith and Hodder all being exceptionally quiet, with Brisbane already ranking mid-table for goalkicking accuracy (37.4%) and bottom-four for marks inside 50 across the season, those absences were decisive.
List pressure is also rising again. Smith is being heavily targeted, and Brisbane's core group is ageing, meaning they must once more balance contending with succession planning, a challenge they've met time and time again, but one that never gets easier.
Still, given the departures they've endured, the injury setbacks, and the early-season shakiness, this campaign remains a resounding PASS. Brisbane continues to embody sustained excellence, a club that, no matter the turnover, always finds a way back to the biggest stage.
Off-season needs:
Key forward depth -- If Taylor Smith departs, Dakota Davidson needs genuine support, plus if Courtney Hodder continues to spend more time in the midfield, Brisbane must identify a small forward who can cover her absence.
Retention of rising talent
More midfield burst speed to support Belle Dawes and diversify their stoppage profile.
Another intercepting tall to support Bre Koenen and strengthen their defensive marking stability.
Carlton
Ladder: 5th
Win-loss: 8-4 (116.9%)
Result: PASS
Carlton's rise in 2025 wasn't just impressive, it was transformative. From 14th in 2024 to being one win away from a Grand Final appearance, the Blues became one of the competition's most exciting and watchable sides. A leadership refresh set the tone, with Abbie McKay taking the captaincy alongside Mimi Hill as vice-captain, signalling a new era built around speed, skill, and composure.
Their trademark was fast overlap run, corridor dare and clean execution. They finished top two in disposal efficiency (63.0%) and led the competition for total tackles, tackle pressure inside 50 and score involvements per game. But the biggest shift came in possession control. They jumped from 14th in contested possessions in 2024 to top three in both contested (119.9) and uncontested (136.9) possessions in 2025, a shift from reactive to genuinely commanding.
Their young core exploded beyond expectation. Sophie McKay had an instant impact, finishing top-10 in the league for marks inside 50 and scoreboard impact, while Poppy Schulz proved a genuine utility, able to influence games at either end with her aerial presence, intercepting ability and forward pressure. Role players like Harriet Cordner's maturity, Maddy Hendrie's intercepting season, Amelia Velardo and the steadying presence of big-name recruit Tara Bohanna rounded out a list profile that suddenly looked balanced, flexible -- and dangerous.
Carlton also became elite at turning territory into pressure, ranking fourth in inside 50 entries (41.8 per game) and top three in forward-half tackles. All-Australian wing Erone Fitzpatrick embodied that surge-and-support mentality -- explosive, dynamic and influential at both ends.
But the gap between 'exciting' and 'elite' became clear in Finals. They remained mid-table for marks inside 50 (7.5) and accuracy (just 34.7%), and kicked more behinds than goals across five games -- an issue that eventually cost them in finals. Their exit at the hands of Brisbane highlighted two clear weaknesses: Despite the talent, their forward line is still quite young and probably lacked the tank for consistency in defensive stoppage coverage, where they sat bottom-four for clearance differential across the finals series.
Still, this was a year that built belief. Their win over Brisbane during the home-and-away season put the rest of the comp on notice, and their elimination-final performance against Hawthorn showed they could stand up when it mattered, even with a young team. Their list build is now strategically aligned to their game style -- youth-led, bold, fast and fearless.
Big clubs have risen quickly and faded just as fast. Carlton now sits at the crossroads, but everything suggests this rise is built to last. Not just because of what they've achieved, but because of who now wants to be part of it.
Off-season needs:
Another small forward to complement Sophie McKay -- Lila Keck is there and this off-season is major for her development
A running defender to add rebound and unlock Erone Fitzpatrick's offensive impact higher up the ground
More midfield depth and clearance support to reduce reliance on Hill, McKay
Refined goalkicking accuracy and forward-50 structure to convert dominance into sustained scoreboard pressure
Collingwood
Ladder: 15th
Win-loss: 3-9, 62.2%
Result: PASS
Coming off a winless, wooden-spoon season last year, few knew what to expect from one of the league's most famous clubs. With the much-hyped No. 1 draft pick, a new captain, and a second-year coach at the helm, it felt like a genuine fresh start for the Pies.
Despite recording just three wins, the foundations of a rebuild are clearly there. The game style is taking shape, and the talent is emerging. The challenge now is execution. Their first win in 330 days over the Giants was a big highlight, followed by handing the Swans their first loss of the season, and pushing a top-two side in Melbourne to within four points.
Ash Centra was the clear standout, her footy IQ, composure, and movement around the ground already look a level above and with a full pre-season under her belt next year she is one to watch. Violet Patterson's bravery and Lucy Cronin's reliability down back also gave fans something to get excited about. The return of a healthy Mattea Breed next season will add even more promise.
But the list still needs reshaping. Collingwood currently has only two list spots open heading into the draft after adding two rookie signings from netball, and while that creativity is promising, they'll need to move some experience to keep the rebuild flowing. The Pies remain heavily reliant on Sabrina Frederick, who continues to shoulder dual responsibilities as their main forward target and part-time ruck. It's a role that demands too much from one player. A fit and firing Bri Davey returning next season would help ease that load and restore leadership in the middle.
The Pies ranked among the bottom five for inside 50s and scoring efficiency, showing they can win enough of the ball but still lack the polish to capitalise. Their turnover rate remains high under pressure, and closing out quarters is another area that needs improvement.
If Collingwood can nail another strong draft and sharpen their ball use, this rebuild might finally start to take flight in 2026.
Off-season needs:
A genuine key forward to support Sabrina Frederick
Depth and composure around Lucy Cronin in defence
A fit and healthy Bri Davey
Essendon
Ladder: 14th
Win-loss: 4-9, 60%
Result: FAIL
The offseason chatter around Essendon was dominated by player exits, Amber Clarke, Paige Scott, and Ash Van Loon (all under the age of 21 at the time). Despite the turnover, there was genuine optimism heading into 2025. That faith was quickly rewarded with a thumping 56-point win over GWS, followed by two more victories to start the year 3-0. For a moment, the Bombers looked like one of the competition's surprise packets.
But when captain Bonnie Toogood was suspended, everything seemed to unravel. The All-Australian forward had kicked four goals across the opening two rounds, but after returning from suspension, managed just one for the rest of the season. Her absence and dip in form coincided with Essendon's collapse.
Maddy Prespakis continued to find the footy, averaging 23.5 disposals, but it lacked impact. Career-lows in kicking efficiency (41.1%) and overall disposal efficiency (52.7%) reflected a season where volume didn't always equal influence. The early loss of reigning best and fairest Maddi Gay to a leg injury also hurt badly, adding to a total of seven leg injuries at Windy Hill and a need to field top-up players just to fill a team sheet.
Like their AFL counterparts, the Bombers' season mirrored a frustrating pattern -- a strong start undone by a mid-year slump. The departures of Clarke, Scott, and Van Loon have left clear structural holes: Van Loon, their No.1 lockdown defender in 2024, leaves behind a backline that conceded the sixth-most points in the competition this year.
There were still positives. Georgia Nanscawen was Essendon's most consistent contributor, while Amy Gaylor emerged as a vital two-way midfielder in her second season. And young forward Grace Belloni showed flashes of promise, offering versatility and mobility that could see her become a key part of the rebuild with more pre-seasons under her belt.
The Bombers ended their year on a high, upsetting Sydney in wet conditions in Coffs Harbour to derail the Swans' finals hopes -- a rare bright spot in an otherwise faltering campaign.
Off-season needs:
A burst-type midfielder with genuine pace from stoppage (too many of the same inside types)
A small forward to support Bonnie Toogood
A key defender to anchor the backline
Fremantle
Ladder: 11th
Win-loss: 6-6, 80.9%
Result: FAIL
After an impressive leap back into finals in 2024, Fremantle entered 2025 hoping to take another step forward. A round one victory over Port Adelaide offered early promise, but what followed sounded alarm bells. Two heavy home losses by 70 points or more to the Lions and North exposed a familiar flaw that the Dockers could not beat top-eight sides.
Although margins tightened as the year went on, the theme remained. Out of their six wins, only two of them were against contending sides. A thrilling five-point win over Melbourne late in the season sparked hope of a turnaround, but when it came to a do-or-die final-round clash with Adelaide, the Dockers once again folded under pressure.
With last year's All-Australian ruck Mim Strom anchoring the middle, supported by a star-studded midfield including Gabby Newton, Kiara Bowers (who again led the league in tackles), Aisling McCarthy, and Hayley Miller, Fremantle's on-paper talent is undeniable. But in 2025, the chemistry and execution just didn't match the calibre.
Recruiting remains a strength -- despite not having a top-10 draft pick since 2018, the Dockers have continued to unearth talent through clever list management, with additions like Gabby Newton and Aisling McCarthy, and the rise of homegrown star Emma O'Driscoll. The future looks bright for emerging names such as Holly Ifould, Matilda Banfield, Indi Strom and Tunisha Kikoak, but the concern lies in the lack of balance with mid-aged depth bridging the gap between youth and experience.
Fremantle have the second-youngest and least-experienced list in the competition, yet their key contributors in Bowers, Gabby O'Sullivan, Aine Tighe, Ebony Antonio and Ash Brazill are all over 31. If age and injuries begin to take their toll, things could start to look very dire. A targeted focus on experienced mid-career recruits must be a priority before the window slips.
In 2026, Fremantle's biggest challenge is simple: beat top-eight sides. Until they do, they'll remain stuck in a cycle of promise without payoff.
Off-season needs:
A genuine key forward to help the reliance on the midfield to score
Mid-aged, experienced recruits to support the next generation and cover for ageing stars
Geelong
Ladder: 13th
Win-loss: 5-7, 92.8%
Result: FAIL
Geelong remains one of the AFLW's biggest underperformers. With the talent on their list, the Cats should be contending -- yet for a second straight year, they've fallen well short. It's no longer about the fixture or luck; the problem feels internal.
CEO Steve Hocking has already hinted at 'greater investment in the program's coaching ranks', and that might be where the root of the problems lay. As the competition's pace evolves, Geelong's development pathways and access to full-time coaching support appear to be lagging behind.
On the field, the story was one of inconsistency. The Cats could hang with top teams, shown by a competitive 14-point loss to Melbourne, but rarely capitalised on momentum. They win enough of the ball, but their inability to convert dominance into scoreboard pressure continues to haunt them. It doesn't warrant a full reset, but it should spark some honest reflection about why this talented list can't break through.
The retirements of captain Meghan McDonald and stalwart Kate Darby leave major holes in defence, though there's optimism up forward. Mikayla Bowen enjoyed her best season yet, while Aishling Moloney's decision to focus full-time on AFLW and step away from Gaelic football this coming pre-season is a major boost. Expect Nina Morrison to take over the captaincy, and more leadership responsibility to fall to Georgie Prespakis, who continues to elevate her game each season.
The talent is there. The question is whether Geelong can finally turn promise into progress.
Off-season needs:
Greater investment in coaching and player development
Replacement for McDonald and Darby in defence
Improved conversion and composure inside 50
Gold Coast
Ladder: 18th
Win-loss: 2-10, 41.3%
Result: FAIL
It was a new era for the Suns in 2025 -- a new coach, new leaders, and fresh faces -- but unfortunately, the results stayed the same, with Gold Coast finishing bottom of the ladder in 18th.
The loss of captain Tara Bohanna to Carlton was a major blow, and while Jacqueline Dupuy looked set to step into that key forward role, an injury-plagued start to the season stalled her impact. The shining light came in the form of first-year sensation Havana Harris, who burst onto the scene with her strength and versatility. Whether in the ruck, as an extra midfielder, or up forward, Harris' ability to dominate contests as a tall was one of the few consistent joys in a difficult campaign.
Injuries were the recurring story. The Suns rarely fielded their full-strength side, with stars like Charlie Rowbottom, Lucy Single, and Claudia Whitfort all spending time sidelined. The reshuffle saw Niamh McLaughlin move into the midfield, a move that paid off with some standout performances, though her absence off half-back was noticeable.
The late-season return of Katie Lynch brought stability to the backline, and with a full preseason behind her, she looms as a key piece heading into 2026. But depth remains a serious concern. Every club faces injuries, yet the Suns struggled to find reliable replacements when key players went down, a sign their list still lacks maturity and experience.
A highlight came in their gutsy win over GWS while ravaged by injuries, defying expectations that they might go winless from that point. It was a brief glimpse of their potential resilience and talent when things click.
The future, though, looks promising. Gold Coast holds the No.1 draft pick, with highly rated Academy prospect Sunny Lappin already nominating the Suns as her preferred destination, a massive boost given her family ties to both St Kilda and Carlton.
Most thought Gold Coast would start to have a Port Adelaide like rise with their young talent, maybe not make finals but begin a promising resurrection but that wasn't the case. The foundation pieces are there; the next challenge is cohesion and continuity.
Off-season needs:
Daisy D'Arcy back fit and firing - her run and balance alongside Rowbottom in the midfield are crucial
A clean preseason - injuries were the biggest obstacle; fielding their best 22 in round one 2026 must be the top priority
GWS
Ladder: 17th
Win-loss: 2-10, 58.9%
Result: FAIL
Heading into the new season, GWS and their fans were full of optimism. A favourable fixture suggested the chance for genuine progress, but instead it began with a 56-point hammering from Essendon, setting the tone for what became another disappointing campaign.
The Giants managed just two wins, handing both Collingwood and Gold Coast their first victories of the season, and frustration from fans reached boiling point, even prompting an open "letter to the Giants" circulating online questioning the direction of the club's women's program.
It's a harsh reality for a side that, on paper, boasts serious talent. Zarlie Goldsworthy, Georgia Garnett, and Tarni Evans continue to lead the way, supported by breakout years from Madison Brazendale, Brodee Mowbray, and Cambridge McCormick. Yet despite the individual promise, the collective output remains stagnant. Across the past three seasons, GWS have never won more than two games and in their AFLW history, they've still never achieved three consecutive wins.
The list has promise but lacks balance. Recent drafts have brought in young midfielders like Kaitlyn Srhoj, Sara Howley, and Grace Martin - whose move to the backline was very promising -- strengthening the on-ball group, but the Giants now desperately need key-position players, particularly a genuine ruck and another tall forward. Eilish O'Dowd, still in just her second season of football ever, has shouldered the ruck load admirably but is being asked to do too much. Winning more hitouts would help unleash Alyce Parker and Goldsworthy, who remain among the competition's elite when given first use.
Up forward, the reliance on Garnett and Evans is unsustainable. Evans' shift into attack has been a success, but she could add more value as a swing option at both ends alongside McCormick. With Isabel Huntington and Vivian Saad unable to be reliable marking targets the GWS midfielders need other marking options when Evans and Garnett take the best defenders each week.
Coach Cam Bernasconi's system also remains under scrutiny. The Giants often look disjointed and unsure of their identity. When they simplify their approach and play instinctively, as seen in their shock upset win over Sydney, they look a completely different team: dynamic, aggressive, and fun to watch. That version of GWS needs to become the norm, not the exception.
Off-season needs:
A genuine ruck to take pressure off O'Dowd and win first possession
A key forward to support Garnett and Evans inside 50
A simplified, player-driven game plan that maximises their young talent
Hawthorn
Ladder: 4th
Win-loss: 9-3 (104.2%)
Result: FAIL
Hawthorn's quick rise from 14th to 2nd in just Daniel Webster's first year set an expectation for 2025. They remained a top-four side, defensively disciplined and elite around the contest but never quite recaptured the spark, flow, and scoreboard threat that made them a genuine contender a year prior.
The season began with promise, opening with a gritty four-point away win over Brisbane and started 4-0. But as they banked wins, their flaws were increasingly masked rather than fixed, scraping past a rebuilding Bulldogs and Collingwood by single digits. It was a 35-point loss to Port Adelaide that exposed how vulnerable they were when challenged with speed, pressure, and structured ball movement. From there, the cracks widened. As other teams gained momentum deep into the season, Hawthorn stalled losing four of their final five games before bowing out in straight sets.
Their stoppage strength held up, finishing top four for centre clearances (18.6) and stoppage clearances (32.1), and their contested possession numbers jumped to 132.6 (up from 116.4 in 2024), showing their system remains structurally sound. But while they could win territory, they didn't damage teams with it. Hawthorn ranked in the bottom three for marks inside 50 and failed to average 50 points across the season -- a stark contrast to North, Adelaide, and Melbourne, who regularly pushed into the 60+ bracket.
Injuries at key moments compounded their issues. Emily Bates only just returned from a mid-season injury in what was ultimately Hawthorn's final game. While, Jasmine Fleming and Aigne McDonald were clearly hampered and losing Eliza West early in the same game only added to the disruption. Najwa Allen, brought in for versatility and speed, struggled to find consistent impact in either role throughout the year. Still, there were meaningful positives. Aigne McDonald's re-signing despite rival interest was a major win, following a career-best season as Hawthorn's most dynamic aerial and ground-level threat. Grace Baba, Hayley McLaughlin, and Laura Stone showed glimpses of long-term upside -- with Stone particularly impressive for her composure and ball use under pressure.
Back-to-back straight sets finals exits raises questions not about talent, but conviction. Hawthorn can win contests. They can shape games. But they don't punish teams enough -- and when it matters, they haven't stood up. Until they convert midfield dominance into reliable scoring, they'll remain competitive but not convincing.
Off-season needs:
Forward support for McDonagh -- plus a creative small forward to complement Greta Bodey and diversify their scoring threats
A clearer ball-movement exit strategy from defensive 50 to attack, focused on connection rather than turnover rebound
Increased outside run, spread and endurance to sustain four-quarter intensity -- especially late in the year
Mental edge and scoring threat in high-pressure games -- turning control into damage
Melbourne
Ladder: 2nd
Win-loss: 9-3 (209.2%)
Result: PASS
Finishing second on the ladder, Melbourne was one of the only realistic challengers to North Melbourne all season. While their campaign ended at a preliminary final defeat, the Demons not only held their ground against North, they looked like the only team capable of unsettling the competition's juggernaut. In a year of improvement, it wasn't a premiership season, but it was still unquestionably a PASS.
Melbourne ranked top two in disposal efficiency (61.3%), marks (48.6), inside 50s (42.0), uncontested possessions (148.3), and kick-to-handball ratio -- reaffirming their identity built on system, discipline and composure. But unlike previous years, it was no longer just veteran-drivenit was shared, adaptable, and structurally deeper.
Kate Hore was superb again. All-Australian calibre, clean across all three lines, and a leader in both scoreboard impact (top five for goals, assists, and score involvements) and composure. But 2025 also marked Maeve Chaplin's breakout as one of the AFLW's premier half-backs. Her intercept craft, decision-making under pressure, and ability to launch offensive chains made her an All-Australian blazer recipient and one of the season's genuine team-of-the-year lock-ins.
However, the early loss of Olivia Purcell significantly altered Melbourne's midfield profile. In arguably career-best form before injury, she was explosive around stoppage, decisive by foot, and gave Melbourne a more damaging centre bounce presence. Without her, they slipped outside the top five for clearance differential and ranked ninth for centre clearance conversion, an area that ultimately hurt them against North Melbourne in finals.
In their preliminary final loss they kept North to one of their lowest scoring efficiency games all season, created territory pressure, and looked structurally capable of breaking their system. They just didn't have the finishing power or midfield burst to turn control into damage.
Now, a defining off-season looms. Mick Stinear stepping away ends the longest coaching tenure in AFLW history, and his successor will inherit a top-four list that needs to evolve -- not rebuild. Eden Zanker's future shapes list strategy, and how Melbourne responds -- whether by retention or leveraging trade capital -- will dictate whether they stay as a system-first side, or move toward a more dynamic, fast-hitting profile.
They didn't reach the Grand Final, but finished second, winning 10 games and remaining one of the most tactically sound teams in the competition, Melbourne pass. The next version needs to be more damaging, more unpredictable, and more daring.
Off-season needs:
Key forward or marking target if Eden Zanker departs -- aerial focal point and scoring presence inside 50
Clearance-winning inside mid to support Purcell's return and lighten Hanks/Paxman reliance
Pressure-creating small forward to lift forward-half tackle volume and turnover scoring
Coaching appointment that can maintain structure but add unpredictability and speed through corridor
North Melbourne
Ladder: 1st
Win-loss: 12-0 (321.5%)
Result: PASS
A simple pass almost feels inadequate. North Melbourne didn't just go back-to-back, they completed two undefeated seasons, hold the longest winning streak in AFL, AFLW and VFL history (27 consecutive games) and produced arguably the most dominant two-year run the competition has ever seen. They haven't lost a match since the 2023 Grand Final, a stat that shows their perfection.
Their success isn't built solely on star power, it's built on layers. North finished No.1 in scoring (63.8 points), disposal efficiency (67.4%), inside-50 differential (+16.3), contested possession differential and defensive pressure ratings. They scored the most, conceded the least, and controlled games with a level of consistency no other side could match.
At the core is a now generational midfield. Ash Riddell claimed the AFLW Best and Fairest after one of the most consistently damaging seasons ever recorded. Jasmine Garner, still arguably the most complete player in the game, backed it up by winning the AFLPA MVP. And even when Mia King missed chunks through injury, North didn't fold they simply adapted.
Their recruitment also hit perfectly. Eilish Sheerin became one of the steals of the season, returning from injury just in time to become their finals X-factor, winning best on ground in only her second game back. And the story of Eliza Shannon was pure football redemption: left out of the premiership side in 2024 after heartbreak the year prior, she finally tasted the triumph she'd been chasing.
Their forward line found new heights too. Tahlia Randall produced her most complete season, combining aerial dominance with a stoppage presence few can match. Bella Eddey and Tess Craven added forward-half pressure and speed North simply didn't have three years ago. They weren't just scoring, they were closing games out very comfortably by half-time.
But the real power lies in their stability. Darren Crocker has built a blueprint that blends system and structure with freedom and flair. North don't rely on moments, they win through process. Opponents can start fast, but the Kangaroos always find a counterpunch and elevate again, a level few sides can match for four quarters. And while players like Garner, Riddell, Emma Kearney and Sheerin may be ageing on paper, their football never shows it, sustained excellence has become the identity.
Their culture is now one of the strongest in the competition. Player movement is low, the retention rate is elite, and even amid interest from expansion sides, players continue to choose North. Their willingness to keep recruiting, keep improving and avoid stagnation -- including links to former No.1 pick Kristie-Lee Weston-Turner, shows a club refusing to fall into a rebuild cycle.
Importantly, their off-field investment now mirrors their on-field standard. North are one of the few clubs to fully separate their AFL and AFLW programs, ensuring AFLW players have dedicated full-time staff including physios, strength and conditioning, coaches and development officers, rather than split resources. It's a model that has become the envy of the competition and shows exactly how North Melbourne values and prioritises their women's program. The results speak for themselves.
They are not just good -- they are sustainable. And that's why this season wasn't just a PASS, it was historic.
Off-season needs:
Player retention -- lower-ranked sides will be circling -- North must keep their depth intact
Youth integration and succession planning - prepare for long-term transition beyond the ageing core, although they show no signs of slowing down (Garner, Bruton, Kearney)
Port Adelaide
Ladder: 10th
Win-loss: 6-6, 105.0%
Result: PASS
It might come as a surprise to some that Port Adelaide earns a pass despite missing finals after last year's preliminary final run -- but the late-season turnaround was too impressive to ignore.
After another slow start that mirrored 2024, the Power began to click in the back half of the season. Coach Lauren Arnell's decision to ditch a rigid structure and shift to a man-on-man game plan freed up her side, allowing their natural talent and attacking instincts to shine. The results came quickly: wins over Hawthorn and, notably, their first-ever victory over crosstown rivals Adelaide. The Power became a scoring machine this season, winning the two highest scoring games in the AFLW, showcasing their exciting attacking brand of footy.
Port's rise was fueled by a wave of young stars. Shineah Goody, Matilda Scholz, and Abbey Dowrick all took major strides, while the long-awaited debut of Lauren Young lived up to the hype. And then there was Indy Tahau, whose breakout season saw her claim the AFLW home-and-away goal record at just 23 years-old, a huge statement of what's to come.
Down back, Ella Heads and Amelie Borg formed an emerging defensive duo, though the lack of tall defensive options was exposed at times against the league's elite forwards. The Power also struggled to close out games, particularly against St Kilda, when they were on the wrong end of the biggest comeback in AFLW history, and Geelong, where missed opportunities proved costly.
Still, there's no denying the trajectory. The young core is exciting, the game plan is evolving, and the belief is real. If Port can carry their late-season form into 2026 from Round 1, a return to finals is within reach.
Off-season needs:
A key defender capable of matching top-tier tall forwards
Two-way running wingers to help sustain their high-pressure style for four quarters
Richmond
Ladder: 16th
Win-loss: 2-10, 59.9%
Result: FAIL
Richmond's 2025 campaign was disappointing and the club knew it. Before the season had even finished, the Tigers announced an extensive external review of their AFLW program, a clear signal that standards hadn't been met.
After back-to-back finals appearances, the Tigers slumped to 16th, managing just two wins. Ironically, their first victory, a shock upset over Adelaide, showed what they can produce at their best. But those moments were few and far between.
Monique Conti remains the competition's gold standard, but the lack of consistent support around her is glaring. With Ellie McKenzie missing the final two rounds through injury, Conti often looked like she was carrying the midfield on her own. Richmond desperately need more players who can win contested ball and share the load in stoppages, especially with chatter of Grace Egan -- their Round 12 best player -- has not been offered a contract for 2026.
The loss of prized recruit Montana McKinnon to a second ACL injury was another major blow. She was recruited to strengthen the ruck and add presence inside 50, both glaring weaknesses this season. Instead, the Tigers were again forced to lean heavily on Katie Brennan, now 33, and Caitlin Greiser, whose form fluctuated but remains capable of brilliance when she's on.
While attacking, Richmond continue to waste opportunities. Despite frequent inside-50 entries, hesitant ball use and poor connection between their mids and forwards cost them repeatedly. Opponents have started to figure them out, and the Tigers' responses have been too slow, a symptom of relying too heavily on a handful of veterans rather than developing broader depth.
The departure of Eilish Sheerin in the offseason hurt more than expected. Her drive off half-back wasn't replaced, and with Jodie Hicks sidelined for most of the year, Richmond's rebound game was badly blunted.
The program's development pathways have also taken a hit. The decision to cut ties with Port Melbourne's VFLW team at the start of the year meant fewer opportunities for emerging players to build match fitness or regain form after injury, a crucial part of player development that other AFLW programs rely on.
While the current review may feel uncomfortable, it's a necessary step. It signals that Richmond expects more and must recalibrate if they're to return to the finals picture anytime soon.
Off-season needs:
More midfield depth to support Conti and McKenzie
A fit key forward/ruck presence to replace McKinnon's role
Reinvestment in player development pathways after the Port Melbourne VFLW split
A cohesive forward system to make the most of inside-50 dominance
St Kilda
Ladder: 7th
Win-loss: 7-5 (87.5%)
Result: PASS
St Kilda's 2025 campaign finally felt like the payoff for years of steady building. They started with a bang with their first-ever victory over Adelaide and set their sights firmly on a maiden finals appearance. Expectations were clear: make the eight or bust.
When injuries hit midway through the season, the Saints' depth was tested and passed. The Round 1 side was never fully intact again, yet they still managed their best season in club history, highlighted by the biggest comeback the AFLW has ever seen: overturning a 27-point deficit at three-quarter time to defeat Port Adelaide by 11.
The Saints' success was driven by a mix of emerging maturity and genuine star power. Jesse Wardlaw was superb in attack -- her All-Australian snub a major talking point -- while Serene Watson anchored the defence with composure beyond her years. Tyanna Smith's burst from stoppage and Jenomie Anderson's spark up forward rounded out an exciting young core that finally looked cohesive.
Statistically, the Saints made noticeable strides. They finished top-five for total disposals and were one of the competition's cleanest teams by foot (kick efficiency 64.9%, above the AFLW mean of 63.2). However, their inside 50 differential (-27.4) and metres-gained differential (-285) highlight an ongoing challenge: converting midfield dominance into scoring opportunities. Their ball movement often looked composed but occasionally too safe, leaving opponents time to reset defensively.
Their clearance numbers show a midfield that can win first use, yet they ranked bottom-four for marks inside 50, a sign that Wardlaw needs more aerial support. Still, their ball retention and pressure metrics held firm, with above-average tackle and contested possession rates that reflect the club's developing resilience.
Looking ahead, a healthy list featuring Nicola Xenos, Paige Trudgeon, Molly McDonald, and Bianca Jakobsson will only strengthen their structure. The next step is sustaining their attacking identity for four quarters. It's time for Georgia Patrikios to rediscover her breakout-year influence and for Charlotte Baskaran to find consistency to match her work rate. With the system finally aligned the only way they can go is up.
Off-season needs:
Keep their best 22 fit and build depth behind it
Help Wardlaw with a secondary key forward or high half-forward option
Push Patrikios and Baskaran to become reliable week-to-week midfield drivers
Sydney
Ladder: 9th
Win-loss: 6-6, 107.5%
Result: FAIL
The Sydney Swans started their season on fire with four straight wins and sitting fourth on the ladder, but the momentum didn't last. A 26-point loss to Collingwood that followed began a slide that saw them drop five of their next seven matches, capped off by a disastrous final-round defeat to Essendon, a side that hadn't won since round three.
The turning point came once opposition teams worked out the blueprint: stop Chloe Molloy, stop Sydney. The co-captain struggled under heavy tags and found it difficult to break free or impact games the way she did earlier in the year. The Swans became too reliant on her brilliance, and when she was shut down, so too was the team's scoring flow.
The club's decision to 'part ways' with inaugural coach Scott Gowans shows where they know where they should be at with the talent they have and after dropping many games against lesser ranked sides. The hunt for a coach who can implement a gameplan that creates a shared role for all players on the field is what they need.
There's no denying the Swans have the talent to contend -- they're young, exciting, and dynamic -- but they need a more even contribution across the ground. Montana Ham had a strong season, showing glimpses of dominance reminiscent of Marcus Bontempelli, as a tall, powerful midfielder who can push forward and score. However, her quiet patches often coincided with Sydney's overall dip in form.
The Swans' disposal under pressure and team defence were recurring issues. Too often, they conceded easy goals due to poor structure or lack of composure. Despite being able to match it with mid-tier sides, they regularly faltered against lower-ranked teams, a consistency problem that must be addressed if they're to take the next step.
The retirement of Rebecca Privitelli leaves a hole in the forward line especially also with Bella Smith leaving to Fremantle last year, but it also opens the door for young key forward Amelia Martin to continue her development. And perhaps the biggest positive of the season was the emergence of Zippy Fish, one of the most impressive debut years in recent AFLW memory. Starting across half-back, her poise, vision, and decision-making with ball in hand stood out immediately. Expect her to see more midfield and wing time in 2026, where her two-way running could elevate the Swans' ball movement.
The Swans can easily be a contending side in 2026 they just need to turn flashes of brilliance into sustained performance.
Off-season needs:
Develop depth and balance across all lines - less reliance on Molloy and Ham
Improve disposal under pressure and field structure
Sharpen team defence to cut off easy goals
Add a key tall forward target to replace Privitelli
Focus on consistency - especially against lower-ranked sides
Hire a new coach that doesn't create a 'rebuilding year' but instead can succeed with the talent that is already there.
West Coast
Ladder: 8th
Win-loss: 6-6 (111.6%)
Result: PASS
In just her second season at the helm, Daisy Pearce has helped West Coast turn belief into results. Once seen as the league's easybeats, the Eagles' transformation into a genuine finals side is one of 2025's best stories.
The "Daisy effect" was evident all season. West Coast became a harder, cleaner, and smarter team, improving across almost every key metric from 2024 to 2025. Their clearances jumped from 29.9 to 37.1 per game, disposal efficiency lifted to 59.7%, and metres gained increased by more than 450 per match. The result? Their percentage skyrocketed from 65 to 111, a remarkable turnaround for a club still in the early stages of its rebuild.
At the heart of it all was Ella Roberts, who has officially arrived as one of the AFLW's brightest stars. She led the Eagles in every key category. Averaging 23.3 disposals, 4.0 marks, 6.9 tackles, 3.9 clearances and 4.9 score involvements per game. Spending roughly 70% of her time in the midfield before drifting forward, Roberts regularly broke games open with explosive bursts and match-winning moments.
Bella Lewis and Charlie Thomas led the team superbly as the new co-captains, while emerging talents like Zoe and Lauren Wakfer, Jessica Rentsch, Lucy Painter, and Georgie Cleaver showcased the depth of West Coast's young core. Painter, in particular, offered glimpses of what's to come with her versatility, forward pressure, and growing confidence around goal, with history of midfield in junior years it will be interesting if Eagles can test that out more in 2026.
But there's still work to do. The Eagles ranked mid-table for inside 50 efficiency and struggled to convert field position into scores, averaging below the league's top eight for marks inside 50 and goal accuracy. Their disposal under pressure can still break down late in games, and at times the youthful side lost momentum after halftime, as seen in their Round 12 loss to Carlton. The challenge for 2026 is sustaining intensity across four quarters and polishing their ball use in the front half.
Defensively, though, the improvement was stark, they conceded an average of just 52 points per game, a huge drop from 2024's 65-plus. The structure behind the ball looked far more organised, with Thomas and Lauren Wakfer intercepting confidently and setting up rebound chains that became a feature of Pearce's game plan.
From wooden-spoon territory to a finals berth in two years, the Daisy Pearce-led Eagles are going to be a scary opposition for any team.
Off-season needs:
A marking key forward to complement Roberts' midfield delivery and finish scoring chains
Improved forward-half conversion -- turn metres gained into scoreboard impact
More midfield depth and experience
Maintain composure under pressure and build four-quarter consistency
Western Bulldogs
Ladder: 12th
Win-loss: 5-7, 126.5%
Result: PASS
The Bulldogs might have finished in the same ladder position as last year (12th), but under Tam Hyatt's second season in charge, they looked far more competitive, and far more confident. The rebuild remains in motion, but the direction is clearly positive.
A string of smart draft selections over the past two seasons is beginning to pay off. Elaine Grigg has quickly become one of the AFLW's most exciting young small forwards, finishing third in the league for tackles inside 50, a testament to her relentless pressure and work rate. She could yet evolve into a damaging mid-forward hybrid. Emma McDonald, a promising tall target, showed flashes of potential, while Sarah Poustie capped her first year with a Rising Star nomination in the final round after a breakout midfield display in the Bulldogs' 45-point demolition of St Kilda.
Heidi Woodley's growth was another highlight, after a full injury-free pre-season for the first time she seamlessly integrated into the side and added composure on the ball. Importantly, Hyatt's game style evolved. After heavy criticism last year for being too defensive, the Bulldogs embraced a faster, more attacking brand of football in 2025. Alice Edmonds was again outstanding -- genuine All-Australian form -- leading the league in hitouts. The next step is converting that ruck dominance into real midfield advantage.
Hyatt also deserves credit for her willingness to take tactical risks. The early-season move of Ellie Blackburn to a high half-forward role didn't pay off, but she wasn't afraid to switch things back quickly. Once returned to the midfield, Blackburn's impact and leadership were again unmatched, driving the Dogs.
Alongside her, Isabelle Pritchard continues to develop into a genuine midfield leader and could well be the club's next captain in 2026. With Deanna Berry battling form and injury, the timing may be right for a leadership refresh.
There are still questions to answer. Former No. 1 pick Kristie-Lee Weston-Turner made just one appearance this season, and her development will be under the microscope next year. Consistency also remains an issue, the Bulldogs were capable of beating good sides one week, then collapsing the next.
Overall, though, the direction is positive as the Dogs are beginning to rediscover their bite.
Off-season needs:
Clarity on Kristie-Lee Weston-Turner's role and development path
A key forward target to complement McDonald
Continued midfield depth and support for Blackburn
More consistency - turn effort into sustained performance