Lauren “LJ” Morecroft is head coach of the Eastern Ranges boys program in the Coates Talent League and a trailblazer in junior elite coaching. A former AFLW defender with the Western Bulldogs, Morecroft moved into coaching after her playing career and, in 2023, became the first woman to coach a boys team in the competition. Under her guidance Eastern have become a consistent contender, culminating in a 2025 Coates Talent League premiership.

In addition to her Ranges role, Morecroft was appointed head coach of Vic Metro’s under-18 boys in 2025, making her the first woman to lead a male National Championships side. She is widely regarded for her game intelligence, relationships with players and ability to balance high standards with a strong development focus – helping prepare top-end draft prospects for the demands of AFL environments.