THREE-time premiership Tiger Dion Prestia has joined Hawthorn's coaching ranks ahead of the 2027 season.

The 254-game veteran will begin the next phase of his career as a development coach, just months after announcing he was hanging up the boots after 16 seasons with the Tigers and Gold Coast.

Prestia had left the door slightly ajar to continue his career at another club, telling radio station SEN "I don't know if it's completely a retirement", but has now opted to begin his coaching journey.

"We welcome Dion to the brown and gold and congratulate him on his appointment as our newest AFL development coach," Hawthorn footy boss Rob McCartney said.

"Across his 16-year playing career, Dion was widely respected as a player who demonstrated discipline, toughness and competitiveness – all characteristics that we believe will make our environment better as he begins his coaching journey.

"As a three-time premiership player fresh out of the game, Dion brings a great understanding as to the current demands of the game and a level of relatability that our players can connect with."

Widely celebrated for playing a key role in Richmond's 2017, 2019 and 2020 Grand Final wins, Prestia was also the Tigers' club champion in 2019.

Prior to his time at Punt Road, Prestia was an inaugural Gold Coast player, where he went on to serve as vice-captain for several seasons.