The North Melbourne Kangaroos have etched their name into Australian rules football history, claiming their first-ever AFLW premiership with a hard-fought victory over the Brisbane Lions in the 2025 Grand Final.
In a match that delivered tension, skill, and raw emotion, the Kangaroos demonstrated why they were the team to beat this season, ultimately overcoming a determined Lions side to secure the championship.
A Battle of Titans on the Grand Stage
From the opening bounce, both teams showcased the elite level that women's Australian rules football has achieved. The Brisbane Lions, drawing on their previous grand final experience, started strongly, applying significant pressure to the North Melbourne defence.
However, the Kangaroos' midfield unit, which has been dominant throughout the season, gradually began to impose their will on the contest. The relentless running and precise ball movement that characterised North Melbourne's campaign came to the fore when it mattered most.
The third quarter proved decisive, with North Melbourne kicking multiple crucial goals to establish a match-winning lead. While the Lions mounted a characteristic fightback in the final term, the Kangaroos' defence stood firm under immense pressure, repelling repeated attacks to hold on for a famous victory.
Heroes Emerge in Championship Performance
Several North Melbourne players delivered career-best performances on the biggest stage. The team's captain led by example with a inspirational display, while their key forward was a constant threat in the attacking half, finishing with multiple scoring shots.
In the engine room, the Kangaroos' star midfielder produced a best-on-ground performance, accumulating possessions and driving her team forward with relentless intensity. Her ability to win the contested ball and distribute effectively under pressure was a key factor in the outcome.
For the Brisbane Lions, there were standout performers despite the result. Their veteran defender was magnificent in a losing cause, making numerous crucial interventions, while their midfield dynamo never stopped trying to will her team back into the contest.
Legacy of a Historic Premiership
This victory represents more than just a trophy for North Melbourne. It marks the culmination of years of development and investment in their women's program, finally delivering the ultimate reward.
The win signals a potential shift in the AFLW landscape, proving that sustained team building and tactical innovation can overcome established powerhouses. For the thousands of young girls watching, it provided new heroes and demonstrated the thrilling possibilities within women's professional sport.
The 2025 AFLW season will be remembered as a watershed moment for the competition, with this grand final serving as a perfect showcase of the skill, athleticism, and drama that has captured the nation's attention.
As the North Melbourne players celebrated with their families and the iconic song echoed around the stadium, it was clear that this was not just a victory for one team, but another significant step forward for women's sport in Australia.
