Laurie Daley and John strange have been appointed by NSW Rugby League as the 2025 State of Origin coaches.

NSW Rugby League recently announced Laurie Daley as the head coach of the Westpac NSW Blues and Roosters coach John Strange as the head coach of the Westpac NSW Women's State of Origin team.

Daley, a Rugby League legend, a former Blues coach and captain, and a member of The Star NSWRL Hall of Fame, returns to lead the team with a wealth of experience and a deep passion for the game.

He previously coached the Blues from 2013 to 2017, guiding the team through some of the most challenging and competitive series in State of Origin history. His leadership and strategic acumen were instrumental in securing a memorable series victory in 2014, breaking Queensland's eight-year winning streak.

"We are excited to welcome Laurie Daley back as the head coach of the New South Wales men’s State of Origin team," said NSWRL Chief Executive David Trodden.

"Laurie's extensive experience, both as a player and a coach, combined with his unwavering commitment to the success of the Blues, makes him the ideal candidate to lead our team into the future."

Daley's appointment comes at a pivotal time for the Blues, as they look to build on the 2024 series success and claim the 2025 State of Origin shield.

"I am honoured and excited to be given the opportunity to coach the New South Wales Blues once again," said Laurie Daley.

"I have always been passionate about State of Origin and the pride that comes with representing New South Wales. I look forward to working with the players, staff, and supporters to achieve our goals. I am conscious of my responsibility to them and I look forward to building on the great work of Madge (Michael Maguire) last year to keep the shield in New South Wales."

NSWRL extends its gratitude to the outgoing coach, Michael Maguire, for his dedication and contribution to the organisation.

"Frank Ponissi is again filling the role of Team Performance Manager and Matt King, for whom we have the highest regard, having been offered the role of Senior Assistant Coach.

"Brett White returns as an Assistant Coach and Gilbert Enoka stays in his role as Leadership Coach,” Trodden said.

To round out the off-field staff, the NSWRL is especially excited to welcome Craig Bellamy to a newly created role as an advisor to the State of Origin coaching staff.

Bellamy is renowned for his exceptional coaching career with Melbourne Storm and will provide invaluable expertise and strategic guidance to the team.

His extensive experience and proven track record in the NRL will be a tremendous asset, helping to shape the Blues' preparation and performance in the 2025 State of Origin series.

Strange brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record of success to the role. With more than 15 years of coaching experience, including leading the Sydney Roosters NRLW team to multiple premierships, Strange is well-equipped to guide the NSW Women's Origin team to new heights.

"We are thrilled to have John Strange join our team," said Trodden. "His expertise, passion, and commitment to the development of women's Rugby League make him the perfect fit for this role.

"We are confident that under his leadership, the NSW Women's State of Origin team will continue to excel and inspire the next generation of players."

Strange said he was looking forward to the new role: "I am very grateful and excited to be appointed as the NSW State of Origin women’s coach for the 2025 Origin series.

"I am a lifelong Blues tragic and it is an incredible honour for me to be appointed into the role. I look forward to working with the talented players available for selection with the aim of building an invincible Blues force for the 2025 season.”

The NSWRL is also pleased to announce that former Australian and NSW Women's Origin captain Ruan Sims will remain as an Assistant Coach. 

Trodden paid tribute to retiring NSW Women's Origin coach Kylie Hilder: “History will recognise the pivotal contribution which Kylie has made to our game as a player, coach and pathways administrator at one of the most important times in the development of the women’s game. Our organisation owes her a great debt.”

Daley and his High-Performance staff will come together in the near future to start planning, with a Blues camp set for February.