BRISBANE'S Craig Starcevich has been recognised as the AFL Coaches Association's AFLW senior coach of the year.

In his fifth year in charge, Starcevich has steered Brisbane to a third Grand Final, despite the club being hit hard by the expansion period.

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In the peer-voted award, the Lion has been given the nod ahead of fellow Grand Finalist coach Matthew Clarke from Adelaide, with Melbourne's Mick Stinear in third place after taking his team to a preliminary final.

Votes are cast on a 3-2-1 basis, with criteria to be considered including the current season's performance, available resources, player talent and team management.

Craig Starcevich with Lions players Jessie Wardlaw and Emma Zielke at the 2021 team photo day. Picture: AFL Photos

Fremantle's Trent Cooper won last year's award, with Carlton's Daniel Harford taking out the inaugural award in 2019.

"Craig's coaching performances this season have not only resulted in a Grand Final appearance this weekend, but also in being recognised by his fellow AFLW Coaches as the 2021 AFL Coaches Association AFLW Senior Coach of the Year," AFLCA CEO Alastair Nicholson said.

"On behalf of the AFLCA and all members, I congratulate Craig on a wonderful season and winning this award."