John Strange has been unveiled as the women’s NSW Sky Blues head coach following the departure of Kylie Hilder.
The Sydney Roosters’ NRLW mentor was revealed as Hilder’s replacement during a joint announcement by NSWRL where Laurie Daley was also confirmed to be the Blues’ head coach for the men’s State of Origin side.
Strange will attempt to reclaim the shield from Queensland in 2025 after NSW went down to their rivals during the historic first three-match series earlier this year.
John Strange named NSW Sky Blues coach after Kylie Hilder’s exit
The two-time premiership winning coach with the Roosters received his club’s backing to take over, due to the Origin series taking place before the start of the NRLW campaign.
Strange guided the Chooks to the title this year and will be desperate to continue his good run with NSW and arrest the state’s poor recent record of four series losses in the last five years.
“We are thrilled to have John Strange join our team,” NSWRL Chief Executive David Trodden said.
“His expertise, passion, and commitment to the development of women’s rugby league make him the perfect fit for this role.
“We are confident that under his leadership, the NSW Women’s State of Origin team will continue to excel and inspire the next generation of players.”
Strange will be supported by former Australian and NSW women’s Origin captain Ruan Sims, who returns as assistant coach.
“I am a lifelong Blues tragic and it is an incredible honour for me to be appointed into the role,” Strange said.
“I look forward to working with the talented players available for selection with the aim of building an invincible Blues force for the 2025 season.”