Senior assistant coach Dean Cox will remain with the Sydney Swans, today informing the West Coast Eagles he will not be applying for the senior coaching role in Perth.

Cox has been an assistant coach at the Swans since 2017, and made the call largely for personal reasons, saying his family is settled in the Harbour city.

“I am extremely happy in Sydney, and I believe this is the best place for me and my family at the moment”, Cox said.

“My two girls are 8 and 11 and have made solid friendships at school, and my wife is running a new business which she is passionate about, so we feel staying in Sydney is the best option for us right now.

42-year-old Cox, who played 290 games for the West Coast Eagles from 2001-2014 (including the 2006 Premiership) was touted as a replacement for Adam Simpson who recently vacated the head coaching position at the club.

 Cox said he loves working at the Swans under John Longmire and believes the current playing list is on the right track.

“Its such a good working environment at the Swans, we feel we have built a strong list at the club and we have got a good foundation for success. I’m really comfortable with the role I have at the club under John,” Cox said.

Cox went on to confirm he and the Swans have not agreed to any ‘succession plan’ going forward.

“It isn’t a point of discussion. Horse (John Longmire) and I have a great relationship, and we are both really clear on the roles we have.

“He’s been a great mentor for me and I’m extremely lucky to be learning off one of the best coaches in the competition. I’m more than happy to continue to be an assistant coach for however long that may be.

“I am aspirational about my coaching career, however I think right now this is the best place to continue my coaching journey.