AFL, 2024: Swans assistant Dean Cox locks in future after being linked to West Coast Eagles gig

Swans assistant Dean Cox was linked to the vacant West Coast coaching role, and now, he has informed the flag favourites of his decision. 

Assistant coach Dean Cox during the Sydney Swans training session at the SCG on July 11, 2024.. Photo by Brett Costello(Image Supplied for Editorial Use only - **NO ON SALES** - ©Brett Costello )

Dean Cox has informed the Swans that he won’t pursue the vacant West Coast coaching role in a major boost for the premiership favourites. 

Cox was heavily linked to the role that Adam Simpson departed last week as one of the most highly-rated senior assistants in the competition. 

The 42-year-old was a premiership ruckman and six-time All-Australian during his 290 games as a player at West Coast, while he also forged a close working relationship with current Eagles CEO Don Pyke while they were both at the Swans. 

However, despite the reported interest, he informed the Swans on Friday that he would not be applying for the position. Instead, he will remain senior assistant at the Swans where he has been since 2017. 

“I am extremely happy in Sydney, and I believe this is the best place for me and my family at the moment”, Cox said.

“My two girls are 8 and 11 and have made solid friendships at school, and my wife is running a new business which she is passionate about, so we feel staying in Sydney is the best option for us right now.

“It’s such a good working environment at the Swans, we feel we have built a strong list at the club and we have got a good foundation for success. I’m really comfortable with the role I have at the club under John.”

Cox has been highly tipped to be the man to eventually take over from John Longmire once he finishes up at the Swans. Longmire is contracted as head coach until the end of 2025 but has not publicly confirmed what his intentions are beyond that season. 

While Sydney is yet to formalise any succession plans, Cox is happy in his current role. However, he made clear he has certain aspirations of what he wants to achieve as a coach. 

“It isn’t a point of discussion. Horse (John Longmire) and I have a great relationship, and we are both really clear on the roles we have,” Cox said.

“He’s been a great mentor for me and I’m extremely lucky to be learning off one of the best coaches in the competition. I’m more than happy to continue to be an assistant coach for however long that may be.

“I am aspirational about my coaching career, however I think right now this is the best place to continue my coaching journey.”

Originally published as AFL, 2024: Swans assistant Dean Cox locks in future after being linked to West Coast Eagles gig