Buckle up, football fans—the AFL State of Origin is making an electrifying return in 2026, and the stakes have never been higher with two legendary coaches stepping into the spotlight! But here's where it gets controversial: Will the choice of coaches reignite old rivalries, and is the selection process fair for today's global talent pool? Let's dive into all the juicy details and see why this could be the event of the year.
Imagine the roar of the crowd as Chris Scott, the brilliant mind behind Geelong's two championship victories, takes charge of the Victorian team in a battle against Western Australia, coached by the iconic Dean Cox, a true West Coast Eagles hero who's now guiding the Sydney Swans. Yes, you heard that right—the Big V is heading west to face off at Optus Stadium on Saturday, February 14, 2026, marking the first State of Origin clash since way back in May 1999.
For those new to the AFL world, State of Origin isn't just any game; it's a high-octane rivalry where players represent their state based on their roots, similar to how cricket or rugby teams are formed. This year's AAMI AFL Origin pits Victoria against Western Australia, and it's inspired by the massive turnout for the Indigenous All Stars versus Fremantle match earlier this year, which packed Optus Stadium with an impressive 37,865 fans. Picture this as a modern twist on classic interstate showdowns, where passion runs deep and every tackle tells a story.
Now, onto the nitty-gritty: Both coaches, along with their dedicated selection committees—each headed by a yet-to-be-named Chairman of Selectors—will soon reveal their squads. Players are chosen not just for their skills on the field, but crucially, based on the location of their junior clubs where they were first drafted. This tradition keeps the focus on grassroots origins, ensuring local pride shines through. To clarify for beginners, think of it like selecting a school team based on where you grew up, rather than just picking the best players from anywhere—it's all about honoring those early connections to your state.
And this is the part most people miss: Each coach gets to handpick three assistant coaches and a high-performance manager to round out their support crew, adding layers of strategy that could make or break the game. Chris Scott, despite playing his entire career for Brisbane Lions, was born and bred in Victoria and has been steering the Geelong Cats since 2011. His previous experience in representative football? He led Australia in the 2017 International Rules Series against Ireland, proving he's no stranger to high-pressure coaching on a bigger stage.
On the other side, Dean Cox is a Western Australian legend through and through. With an astonishing 290 games for the West Coast Eagles, he racked up six All-Australian selections and even a premiership medal. He also suited up for the WA side in the 2008 Hall of Fame tribute match against Victoria, showcasing his enduring love for the game. Having taken the reins at the Sydney Swans just over a year ago, Cox brings a wealth of experience that could turn the tide.
To put this revival into perspective, the last Origin game was in 1999, where Victoria dominated South Australia. Before that, WA and Victoria hadn't faced off since 1992. But the spirit of Origin lives on in other memorable events, like the 2008 Hall of Fame clash and the 2020 bushfire relief match, both featuring the Big V against mixed teams. These games highlight how AFL unites communities, especially in times of need—perfect examples of the sport's bigger role beyond competition.
And here's a controversial twist that might spark debate: Is picking players solely by junior club locations outdated in our interconnected world? What if a star player from one state is overlooked because of where they were drafted? Does this system truly represent the best talent, or does it prioritize nostalgia over performance? We think it's a fascinating point—some fans swear by the tradition, while others argue for a more merit-based approach. Who do you side with? Will Victoria's home advantage in Scott's heart give them the edge, or is Cox's deep WA roots the secret weapon? Share your thoughts and predictions in the comments below—we'd love to hear if you agree, disagree, or have your own take on this AFL revival!
