- Dean Cox is Sydney Swans’ new head coach
- Replaces John Longmire after 15-year tenure
- Cox, 43, was a superstar in his playing days
Rusted-on Swans fans will remember Dean Cox well from his decorated playing days with the West Coast Eagles – a tough, uncompromising ruckman who was a winner.
Cox won a premiership in 2006 – ironically against the Bloods – and now has been tasked with replacing John Longmire as Sydney’s head coach for next season and beyond.
After serving a seven-year apprentice under Longmire, Cox is adamant he can handle the hot seat as his team look to atone after a heavy grand final defeat against Brisbane in September.
‘One thing that I’m extremely proud of in this organisation is the sustainability of performing at the highest level and our players produced some amazing football this year and something we’re really proud of,’ Cox said following the announcement on Tuesday.
‘There’ll be some little tweaks that I’ll do differently than John, but overall, it’s a well-run footy program.
‘It has been for a long time and we’ll make sure that we give the players the best chance that they can continually perform, improve and enjoy their time together.’
Cox’s elevation comes as Longmire – who won a flag in 2012 – wouldn’t rule out a return to senior coaching, albeit at a rival AFL club.
‘I need a rest. I need to regenerate myself into whatever I do in the future,’ the 53-year-old said.
Many Swans fans will remember Dean Cox well from his decorated playing days with the West Coast Eagles
Cox (right) won a premiership in 2006 – ironically against the Bloods – and now has been tasked with replacing John Longmire as Sydney’s head coach for next season and beyond
John Longmire was the Swans head coach between 2011 and 2024 – and guided his team to five grand finals, winning one in 2012
He won’t be short of options, with new franchise Tasmania a genuine possibility in 2028.
In the short term, the likes of Adelaide (Matthew Nicks), Western Bulldogs (Luke Beveridge) and Fremantle (Justin Longmuir) all enter next season with clouded futures.
Longmire also revealed he started planning his exit 18 months ago – and Cox was quickly earmarked as his replacement.
Cox – a six-time All-Australian player, has inked a four-year deal – and is keen to build on Longmire’s success.
‘I’m grateful to John for his support of me and for being a great coaching mentor,’ he said.
‘It’s an honour to take the baton from John. I understand the enormous responsibility this role brings, and I’m looking forward to getting to work and continuing the success of this great club for our loyal supporters.’
