The VFL Bombers have received a boost on the eve of their 2022 season, with club games record holder Dustin Fletcher joining them as an assistant coach (backline).
The 400-game legend was unveiled in a team meeting on Wednesday, in a move that sees him reunite with former teammates Brent Stanton (head coach), Michael Hurley (assistant) and Ben Jolley (assistant).
Cam Roberts and Leigh Tudor will again be part of the VFL coaching panel as AFL development coaches, with the latter coaching the team last season.
Fletcher, who has coached at Penleigh and Essendon Grammar School and the club's Next Generation Academy since his retirement, said he took up the role after being approached by Stanton.
"About a couple of weeks ago, 'Stants' said, 'Can you come and help out?' I was rapt that he asked me to help you guys out," Fletcher told the players.
"I still love footy, whether it's under-10s, senior footy, VFL or state-grade footy.
"I really enjoy the challenge and I'm here to have a good time, but obviously I'm not here to lose. I want to win. I'm rapt to be on board."
Stanton, who will this week coach his first VFL game at the helm, said he was thrilled to have Fletcher by his side.
"He (Fletcher) needs no introduction about what he did in his AFL career," Stanton said.
"He's got a great knowledge of the game, and he's super at building relationships with players and people in general.
"From my point of view, I couldn't be more excited to have him here."
The VFL Bombers will kick off their season against Geelong at GMHBA Stadium from 2:05pm on Saturday, with the match streamed live on AFL.com.au and the AFL Live Official App.
Former Port Adelaide player Joe Atley will captain the side for the second consecutive season, supported by Sam Conforti, Billy Cootee, James Harrold and James Iacobaccio in the leadership group.
