NSW Touch Football is proud to announce the coaching appointments for the 2027 State of Origin Power Divisions, marking an exciting step forward in our high-performance pathway as we prepare to once again take on Queensland Touch Football.

State of Origin remains one of the biggest stages in our sport. It is where the best of New South Wales meet the best of Queensland in a contest built on pride, passion, rivalry and performance. IT’S THE BIGGEST RIVALRY.

Every division matters, every moment counts, and every person involved plays a role in what makes Origin such a special part of the Touch Football landscape.

Following NSW’s incredible 2025 State of Origin campaign, where our teams showed enormous belief, resilience and determination to retain the shield, attention now turns to 2027 and the next chapter of the rivalry.

Going up against Queensland is never easy. Their teams are always strong, well-prepared and ready for the challenge. That is what makes State of Origin so important, and why the appointment of our Power Division coaches is such a significant moment for NSW Touch Football.

These coaches will play a key role in guiding our athletes, shaping team culture, and preparing our squads to perform on the biggest stage. Their leadership, experience, and understanding of the game will be vital as NSW looks to build on its proud Origin history and push towards another successful campaign in 2027.

NSW Touch Football congratulates the following coaches on their appointments:
Men’s Open
Head Coach: Scott Buckley
Assistant Coach: Lindsey Brain

Assistant Coach: Daniel Barton
Manager: Geoff Thornton

Women’s Open

Head Coach: Peter Forrester
Assistant Coach: Joel Willoughby
Assistant Coach: Matt Scranage
Manager: Kim Solman

Mixed Open

Head Coach: Jason Martin
Assistant Coach: Cameron Maxwell
Assistant Coach: David Stone
Manager: Belinda Jelacic

Men’s 20s
Head Coach: Nicholas Good
Assistant Coach: David Collins
Assistant Coach: Matt Tope
Manager: Colin Field

Women’s 20s

Head Coach: Roha Paki
Assistant Coach: Natalie Little
Assistant Coach: Amanda Skwarko
Manager: Donna Ryan

NSW Touch Football CEO Daniel Rushworth said the appointments represent an important step in building towards the 2027 campaign.

“Our Power Division coaches are a critical part of our high-performance pathway. They help set the standard for our athletes, drive the environment within our teams and play a major role in preparing NSW to compete at the highest level.”

“State of Origin is always a challenge, and Queensland will no doubt come ready. But that is what makes this rivalry so special. We are excited by the quality of coaches appointed across these divisions and look forward to seeing them guide our teams into 2027.”

The 2027 State of Origin campaign will provide another opportunity for NSW athletes, coaches, referees and support staff to showcase the strength of our pathway, the depth of our talent and the pride that comes with representing New South Wales.

With the foundations now being laid, NSW Touch Football looks forward to working closely with our appointed coaches as preparations begin for what promises to be another unforgettable State of Origin series.

Congratulations to all appointed coaches.