A new NSW women’s Origin coach will be charged with preventing a Queensland threepeat after incumbent Kylie Hilder ended her four-year tenure coaching the Sky Blues.
Back-to-back series losses as the women’s Origin contest expanded to a historic three-game series this year have prompted Hilder to walk away from the role she held since 2021.
The 48-year-old had been appointed on a 12-month contract each season but faced mounting pressure following the Maroons emphatic 22-6 series-deciding win in July, which came after NSW had won the series opener at Suncorp Stadium.
Hilder confirmed on Monday that she would not reapply for the position, with the NSWRL to begin canvassing for a replacement in 2025.
“I felt it was time for a change for the team, but I have thoroughly enjoyed the experience and privilege of coaching the NSW women’s Origin team over the past four years and I take a lot of pride in the contribution I have been able to make in that short time,” Hilder said.
“To see women’s Origin grow from one game when I started coaching to a three-game series this year is a monumental achievement for the game and speaks volumes about the incredible talent pool in the women’s ranks.
“It also says a lot about the work that is being done at NSWRL in our pathways programs to develop genuine player depth at all levels, preparing them for NRLW and Origin honours.”
Sky Blues coach Kylie Hilder has ended her Origin tenure.Credit: Getty Images
Ex-Dragons NRLW coach and former Blues five-eighth Jamie Soward has already expressed interest in the role, having previously served as Hilder’s assistant in 2022. The likes of Warriors NRLW coach Ronnie Griffiths and Tigers mentor Brett Kimmorley have also been touted as potential candidates.