West Perth product Longmuir revealed as WA State of Origin coach

Fremantle coach and proud West Perth and Koorda product Justin Longmuir will take the reins of WA’s State of Origin side for February’s blockbuster clash against South Australia at Optus Stadium.

Longmuir will take over from Sydney Swans coach and fellow country WA product Dean Cox, from East Perth via Dampier, for the second year of AFL Origin after the Black Swans went down to Victoria in the long-awaited return earlier this year.

It caps off a massive year for Longmuir, who led the Dockers to just their second ever Grand Final appearance and was named the AFL Coaches Association Coach of the Year.

The 45-year-old also served as an assistant under Cox against Victoria.

“Western Australia has a proud football history and the rivalry with South Australia has produced some memorable contests in the past. To be part of renewing that rivalry at Optus Stadium next February is very exciting,” Longmuir during his press conference at West Perth Football Club on Friday morning.

 

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“After being involved earlier this year for the return of AAMI AFL Origin, to now lead the state that I have spent most of my playing and coaching career means a great deal to me and I can’t wait to select a team that reflects the quality of Western Australian football and a team that will put on a great show in front of a sold out Optus Stadium.”

Origin preparations will ramp up on Tuesday, February 23 next year when players and staff will arrive in Perth to begin Origin week, with the main event at Optus Stadium on Saturday, February 27.

The first group of WA players are expected to be announced later in the month.