HAWTHORN has appointed Melbourne great David Neitz as a specialist key-position coach, a week after Danny Frawley quit a similar position at the Hawks to rejoin his old club St Kilda.

 

Neitz has taken on the role working with the Hawks' developing tall forwards and defenders next season.

 

The 39-year-old brings a wealth of experience to Hawthorn from his 306-game Melbourne career as a key backman and later a Coleman Medal-winning forward.

 

"We're confident David's experience in a number of key position roles will be incredibly valuable in coaching our younger players who are developing in those positions," Hawthorn's general manager of football operations Chris Fagan said.

 

"The fact that David earned All Australian selection as a centre-half back in 1995 and then again seven years later as a full-forward indicates he has a great deal of experience at both ends of the ground that he can impart on our younger players.

 

"As a 300-plus game player, we are also pleased that he will be available to provide guidance and advice for our senior players.

 

"David will bring a wealth of knowledge and leadership to the team, which will complement and enhance our current coaching group."

 

Neitz retired in 2008 after a decorated career at Melbourne, where he was the 2002 best and fairest, a seven-time leading goalkicker and remains the club's longest-serving captain.

 

Since hanging up the boots, he has worked in stakeholder relations for the Demons and for health company Swisse.