Long-time players Matt Field and Alex Hull will share the role of first grade coach, while Kade Welsh has dusted off his boots after a year off, to play with, and oversee the reserve grade side.

Together, the three have a combined total of 65 years of football experience.

“Coaching is always something that has been on the cards for me,” Matt said.

“I'm not getting any younger, and it was suggested I throw my hat in the ring so I thought I'd give it a crack … it’s going to be more stressful, but it will be good.

“We just want to have a successful year and most of all, make sure everyone enjoys the season. If everyone walks away happy, we’ve achieved our main goal.”

Alex feels because of their age, he and Matt will be able to relate to some of the younger players rising through the ranks.

“I’ve been playing footy since I was five, and I feel I can offer and share my knowledge and experiences with those playing this year,” he said.

“We want to bring some old heads and new heads back together; bring the community back to games and get them enjoying footy in the Valley again, and just overall make it a strong, striving club for years to come.”

Kade said he’s looking forward to the challenge of playing and coaching, and hopes to make the club great again.

“I put my name down to try and help build the club back up again, and because I’ve been a part of it for so long,” he said.

“It'll be a completely different experience this year. I expect it to be more challenging, but if things plan out the way I’m hoping, it will be worthwhile.”

New Zealand super coach Darren Campbell will make the trip across ‘The Ditch’ to take over as coach of the under 18s side; while the club’s new women’s league tag side will be coached by Caryl Jarrett.

“The appointment of our new coaches is one phase of the club’s change to become more professional,” Roosters president Scott Cosstick said.

“We’ve been training since November and have gotten back into it early this year to build fitness and make it more enjoyable.

“There’s a strong focus on being an inclusive club, and what we have planned, we’re hoping will benefit everyone.”

The club would also like to thank all those who applied for the 2017 coaching positions.

The club’s training nights are Monday and Wednesday from 6 o’clock at Coronation Park.

All players, new and current, are welcome, with players able to sign on for the season at training.