Tipperary footballing legend makes history in Australia with confirmation of new role

Colin O’Riordan has created a slice of Aussie Rules history after being named senior coach of the Sydney Swans AFL women’s team.

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The appointment sees the former Tipperary footballer become the first Irish person to take charge of a senior team in the AFL or AFLW.

JK Brackens man O’Riordan, who is 30, enjoyed a six-year playing career with Sydney, featuring in 34 AFL games from 2016 to 2022 before a long-standing hip injury brought his time on the field to an end.

During that period, he briefly returned to Ireland and played a pivotal role in Tipperary’s memorable 2020 championship run, helping his county secure a first Munster senior football title in 85 years.

Following his retirement as a player, O’Riordan transitioned seamlessly into coaching with the Swans. He has since held a number of roles within the club, including head coach of the QBE Sydney under-18 male academy and assistant coach with the AFLW side.

Reacting to his appointment, O’Riordan said: “Ever since I arrived at the Sydney Swans as a player I fell in love with the place, so to be trusted with the role as AFLW senior coach is a huge honour.

“I have a lot of faith in the current playing list, and I think we have the foundations of a successful team,” he added. “I’m extremely grateful that the club has given me the chance to take on a more senior coaching role, and I can’t wait to get started.”

Sydney Swans executive general manager of AFLW football Kate Mahony said the club was confident it had identified the right person to lead the program into 2026.

“After an extensive and thorough recruitment process, we feel that Colin has all the attributes to be a successful AFLW senior coach, and was the standout choice,” Mahony said.

“Over the past couple of years, he has shown exemplary leadership in his various coaching roles at the club, with his integrity a hallmark of his character. Colin is a well-respected member of the club, and I look forward to seeing what he will bring to the programme.

“We are thrilled to officially welcome Colin and his fiancée Louise into the Swans AFLW family.”

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