- Dean Cox is the new head coach of Sydney Swans
- Replaces John Longmire after 15 years in office
- Cox, 43, was a superstar in his playing days
Fans of the rusty Swans will remember Dean Cox 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 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 confident he can handle the hot seat as his team attempts to atone for a heavy finals defeat to Brisbane in September.
“One thing I am extremely proud of in this organization is the sustainability of performing at the highest level and our players have produced some great football this year and it is something we are very proud of,” Cox said after the announcement on Tuesday.
“There will be a few minor adjustments that I will make differently to John, but overall it is a well-run footy program.
“It’s been a long time coming and we’ll make sure we give the players the best chance they can to continually perform, improve and enjoy their time together.”
Cox’s elevation comes as Longmire – who won a flag in 2012 – would not rule out a return to senior coaching, albeit at a rival AFL club.
‘I need rest. I have to regenerate myself in everything 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 is now tasked with replacing John Longmire as Sydney head coach for next season and beyond
John Longmire was the head coach of the Swans between 2011 and 2024 and led his team to five grand finals, winning one in 2012
He will not lack options, with a new franchise Tasmania in 2028 a possibility.
In the short term, like Adelaide (Matthew Nicks), Western Bulldogs (Luke Beveridge) and Fremantle (Justin Longmuir) all face bleak futures next season.
Longmire also revealed he began planning his departure 18 months ago – and Cox was quickly named as his replacement.
Cox, a six-time All-Australian player, has signed a four-year contract and is keen to build on Longmire’s success.
“I am grateful to John for supporting me and being a great coaching mentor,” he said.
‘It is an honor to take over from John. I understand the enormous responsibility that comes with this role, and I look forward to getting started and continuing the success of this great club for our loyal supporters.”