NSWRL has paid tribute to John Strange after he announced today that he would be stepping down as coach of the Westpac NSW Blues Women following a successful two-year stint which included a historic 2026 series victory.
Strange was appointed as head coach of the Westpac NSW Blues Women at the end of 2024, becoming the first active NRLW club coach (Sydney Roosters) to also hold the Origin role.
His impact was immediate, after he overturned consecutive series defeats and guided the Blues to a 2–1 series victory in 2025. Game One of the series was particularly memorable after he guided NSW to a 32-12 win over the Maroons at Suncorp Stadium, which was their heaviest-ever loss at home.
In 2026, Strange made history when he coached the team to become the first Women’s Origin team – and the first NSW Origin team since 2000 – to win a series 3-0, with the team only conceding 20 total points across three games.
“John changed the trajectory of our women’s State of Origin program,” NSWRL Chief Executive David Trodden said.
“He instilled a winning culture amongst the NSW Women’s group. Across his tenure, he recorded five wins and only 1 tight loss. That is a testament to John’s professionalism, standards and passion for the representative scene.
“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.
“He has set the benchmark as a coach, and we will look to continue the success he has brought to the organisation."
Strange said: “It has been an honour and a privilege to coach the Westpac NSW Blues Women’s State of Origin Team.”
“I am incredibly proud of what we have achieved, but even prouder of the players and staff that make this group so special.
“I will take away some fantastic memories and relationships that will last a lifetime.
“Thank you, it has been an absolute honour.”
NSWRL will undergo a process to appoint a new coach of the Westpac NSW Blues Women for the 2027 Ampol State of Origin Series.
