“Hope She’s Injured”: NSW Coach John Strange Takes a Swipe at Roosters and Maroons Superstar

John Strange has been officially introduced as the coach of the NSW Sky Blues, and he has quickly jumped into the heated rivalry of State of Origin.

Following Kylie Hilder’s decision to resign after a challenging series loss, Strange will step into the role for the upcoming women’s series next year.

At 49 years old, he has just led the Sydney Roosters to victory in the NRLW premiership this year and boasts an impressive coaching background in women’s football.

“I am incredibly thankful and thrilled to accept this appointment,” he stated.

“I have always been a devoted Blues supporter, and it is an immense privilege,” he continued.

“I am eager to collaborate with the talented players we’ve got available and work towards establishing an unbeatable Blues squad for the 2025 season.”

Strange also confirmed that he will continue in his role as head coach of the Roosters.

“The NRLW season is still short, and the Women’s Origin series takes placebefore the first round,” he explained.

“It will be a smooth transition, although there is a brief two-week overlap after Origin III, but I have a fantastic team assisting me at the Roosters.”

“I have complete confidence… that those weeks I’ll be away, everything will be in good hands.”

Strange didn’t miss an opportunity to take a light-hearted jab at Maroons star Tarryn Aiken, who has closely worked with him during their time at Bondi.

“It might be tricky to coach against Tarryn, to be honest,” he admitted.

“To be completely honest, it’s probably going to be a bit of a challenge,” Strange said.

“I’m quite close with Tarryn – we often discuss strategies, and she’s truly passionate about the game. So, navigating that will be interesting. I’ve had to coach against my daughter when she played for the Knights, so I have some experience with that,” he added with a grin.

“We only have one player in that [Maroons] squad – let’s hope she’s injured,” he quipped, tongue firmly in cheek.

Ruan Sims will continue her duties as assistant coach for the Sky Blues.

Queensland triumphed in the first three-game series between the teams in 2024, having claimed the Origin shield in four of the past five years.

This announcement coincided with Laurie Daley re-signing for a second term to lead the men’s NSW team, ushering in a new chapter for the state.