- Dean Cox is the new coach of the Sydney Swans
- Replaces John Longmire after 15 years in office
- Cox, 43, was a superstar in his playing days.
Rusty 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 the premiership in 2006, ironically against the Bloods, and is now tasked with replacing John Longmire as Sydney head coach for next season and beyond.
After serving as a seven-year apprentice under Longmire, Cox is convinced he can handle the bench as his side look to atone after a tough grand final loss against Brisbane in September.
“One thing I’m very proud of in this organization is the sustainability of performance at the highest level and our players produced some incredible football this year and something we’re really proud of,” Cox said following Tuesday’s announcement.
“There will be some small adjustments that I will make differently than John, but overall, it is a well-run football program.
“It has been that way for a long time and we will ensure that we give the players the best opportunity so that they can continually perform, improve and enjoy their time together.”
Cox’s elevation comes as Longmire, who won a flag in 2012, would not rule out returning as a senior coach, albeit at a rival AFL club.
‘I need a break. “I need to regenerate in 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 the premiership in 2006, ironically against the Bloods, and is now tasked with replacing John Longmire as Sydney 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 will not be short of options, as the new Tasmanian franchise is a real possibility in 2028.
In the short term, companies like Adelaide (Matthew Nicks), Western Bulldogs (Luke Beveridge) and Fremantle (Justin Longmuir) enter next season with cloudy futures.
Longmire also revealed He began planning his departure 18 months ago, and Cox was quickly appointed as his replacement.
Cox, a six-time All-Australian player, has signed a four-year deal and is eager to build on Longmire’s success.
“I am grateful to John for his support and for being a great mentor as a coach,” he said.
‘It is an honor to take over from John. “I understand the huge responsibility that comes with this role and I look forward to getting to work and continuing the success of this great club for our loyal fans.”