John Strange has been officially unveiled as the NSW Sky Blues coach.
After the decision from Kylie Hilder to step down following a tough series loss, Strange will take over the role for next year’s women’s State of Origin series.
The 49-year-old led the Sydney Roosters to the NRLW premiership this year and has an extensive resume as a coach in the women’s game.
“I am very grateful and excited to be appointed,” he said.
“I am a lifelong Blues tragic and it is an incredible honour.
“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.”
Strange also confirmed he would remain in his role as Roosters coach.
“Obviously with the NRLW, it’s a shortened season still and the girls Origin series is all played out before round one,” he said.
“It’s gonna work out really well, but there’s a slight two-week overlap from Origin III – but I’ve got awesome staff there at the Roosters.
“I’m totally confident … those couple of weeks I’m away, I have total confidence.”
Ruan Sims will remain in her role as Sky Blues assistant coach.
Queensland won the first three-game series between the two sides in 2024 and have been in possession of the Origin shield in four of the past five years.
The announcement was made in tandem with Laurie Daley signing on for a second stint in charge of the men’s NSW team as the state ushers in a new era.