John Strange Steps Down as NSW Blues Women’s Coach After Historic Origin Success
John Strange stepped down as head coach of the Westpac NSW Blues women’s team on Wednesday after securing a historic 3-0 State of Origin series sweep.
The departure concludes a two-year tenure in which Strange recorded five wins from six matches. In 2026, his squad became the first women’s Origin team and the first NSW side since 2000 to achieve a clean sweep, conceding only 20 points across three games, according to New South Wales Rugby League.
Strange took over the role at the end of 2024 while continuing as head coach of the Sydney Roosters NRLW team.
NSWRL chief executive David Trodden paid tribute to the departing coach’s tenure.
“John changed the trajectory of our women’s State of Origin program,” Trodden told New South Wales Rugby League. “He instilled a winning culture amongst the NSW Women’s group. Across his tenure, he recorded five wins and only one tight loss.”
Trodden also said:
“That is a testament to John’s professionalism, standards and passion for the representative scene.”
Trodden added: “Behind the scenes, he has been a long-term pioneer of the women’s game and although we are sorry to see him go, we will forever be thankful for the lasting legacy he has left.”
Trodden further said: “He has set the benchmark as a coach, and we will look to continue the success he has brought to the organisation.”
Strange also reflected on his time leading the representative side.
“It has been an honour and a privilege to coach the Westpac NSW Blues Women’s State of Origin Team,” Strange said, as reported by New South Wales Rugby League. “I am incredibly proud of what we have achieved, but even prouder of the players and staff that make this group so special.”
Strange also said:
“I will take away some fantastic memories and relationships that will last a lifetime”
Strange added: “Thank you, it has been an absolute honour.”
Coaching vacancies for 2027
Strange’s decision to step aside will fuel speculation regarding NRL club roles, particularly with the Sydney Roosters seeking new assistants following the departures of Michael Cheika and Matt King. Strange remains contracted to the Roosters for another year after leading them to their third NRLW title.
The New South Wales Rugby League will now begin the selection process to appoint a successor ahead of the 2027 Ampol State of Origin series, which begins in April.
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