North Melbourne AFLW coach Scott Gowans has become a victim of football's coronavirus-enforced financial squeeze with the club electing not to renew his contract.
The club announced on Thursday that the decision had been made after a "review of the club's structure under a new AFL economy and resourcing restrictions".
"The discussion with Scott was one I truly wish we didn't have to have, but we're operating under new rules with less flexibility," North Melbourne's general manager of football Brady Rawlings said.
"Scott has been a tremendous contributor to the club and our AFLW program.
"This circumstance has come about through no fault of his own and we sincerely thank him for his passion, commitment and hard work during his time at Arden Street.
"Unfortunately for Scott and so many others across the industry, we and other clubs have been forced to make some very difficult and hard decisions."
Darren Crocker will now operate in a dual-capacity as the AFLW coach from November 1, while continuing his role as pro scout for the AFL side.
Gowans' Roos had reached the preliminary final stage of the season before COVID-19 forced the year to be abandoned.
The Roos had a 5-1 home and away record before their semi-final win over Collingwood. He had taken the club to a 5-2 record in 2019, however it was not enough to make the finals that year.
Gowans had nine Tasmanian players on his books in 2020, including Northern trio Mia King, Daria Bannister and Abbey Green and their North-West based Launceston teammates Chloe and Libby Haines.
The Kangaroos have played annual games in Launceston and Hobart the past two seasons.
Alex Fair
Deputy Editor of The Advocate on the North-West Coast of Tasmania.
Deputy Editor of The Advocate on the North-West Coast of Tasmania.
