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WEST Coast great Dean Cox is flying out of the Eagles' nest to join Sydney as an assistant coach.
The 36-year-old, who also interviewed with Geelong about a coaching position as reported by AFL.com.au last week, leaves after three seasons working full-time under Eagles mentor Adam Simpson.
Speaking at Friday night's club champion award, Simpson was still hopeful that Cox would remain with the Eagles.
But his departure brings to a close an 18-year affiliation with West Coast for the 2006 premiership ruckman, who was recruited via the 2000 rookie draft.
"The journey over the years has been an amazing ride. I feel very privileged to have been able to represent this great club for such a long time," Cox said.
"I’ll be forever grateful for the opportunity to learn from so many great people, but I know the time is now right to begin a new chapter."
Long-time West Coast CEO Trevor Nisbett said Cox, who is the Eagles' games record holder after making 290 appearances, was among the club's most revered servants.
"There are few people in the club’s history who can match Dean’s contribution on and off the field," Nisbett said.
"While we’re disappointed to lose someone of Dean’s quality, we understand it is part of his continued growth as a coach.
"We thank Dean for everything he has given the West Coast Eagles and wish him the very best in the future."
The Eagles will have a new-look coaching panel next season, with senior assistant Justin Longmuir recently joining Collingwood as part of Nathan Buckley's revamped team.
Retired champion Sam Mitchell will step into coaching full-time in 2018 and could take on Cox's midfield duties after the big man worked in tandem with Adrian Hickmott this season.
AFL.com.au understands forward line coach Jaymie Graham will remain at West Coast after re-signing for a further two seasons.
Cox, who has an ambition to become a senior coach, will help cover Swans mentor John Longmire's loss of right-hand man Stuart Dew, who recently took on Gold Coast's top job.
Longmire's panel has undergone significant change this off-season, with highly rated pair Henry Playfair (St Kilda) and Josh Francou (Adelaide) joining new clubs.
"We’re really excited to have someone of Dean’s calibre and experience join the Swans as an assistant coach for the 2018 season and beyond," head of football Tom Harley said.
"Dean will bring a fresh perspective following a highly decorated and successful playing career, as well as a solid foundation in the assistant coaching ranks.
"We look forward to welcoming Dean and his family to the Swans."
