Sydney's longest serving coach John Longmire has stepped down from his role despite having one year to run on his contract, the club announced on Tuesday.
Longmire had been at the helm of the Swans since 2011, and won the 2012 premiership with the club. He also made Grand Finals in 2014, 2016, 2022, and this past season in 2024.
Despite a 1-4 record in Grand Finals, Longmire is one of the most successful coaches of the modern era, boasting a winning percentage of 62.9% from 333 games in charge (208-3-122). From 2025, he will remain at the club and step into the role of executive director of club performance.
The club also confirmed Dean Cox has been appointed as senior coach, with an initial contract of four years.
Cox turned down the West Coast Eagles head coaching role when it was open earlier in the year.
The Swans have scheduled a press conference for a "major club announcement" today at 1:30pm, where Longmire, Cox, and chairman Andrew Pridham will be present.
"In making the decision to move on, it is important to me that I leave the role with the club in great shape, enjoying record crowds, a world-class HQ, a wonderful playing list, an experienced coaching team, and quality football department," Longmire said in a statement.
"I had been wrestling with the decision about whether I would coach on for 2025 since about midway through last season.
"After such a long time coaching, the week in, week out, really does start to wear on you. I feel that I need to step back from coaching to rest, reflect and regenerate.
"I knew Dean was ready and it just made sense to hand over. It would have been nice to finish with a flag, as I did as a player, but that wasn't to be."
Cox, who has been an assistant at the Swans since 2017, said he is 'extremely excited for next year and beyond'.
"I'm grateful to John for his support of me and for being a great coaching mentor," he said. "Having him remain at the club is fantastic as it will allow everyone right across the organisation to draw on his vast experience.
"It's an honour to take the baton from John. I understand the enormous responsibility this role brings, and I'm looking forward to getting to work and continuing the success of this great club for our loyal supporters."