TWO-TIME premiership player Don Pyke has been appointed as an assistant coach at the Eagles, focusing on strategy, stoppages and structure under new coach Adam Simpson.
Pyke, who played 132 games with the Eagles including the 1992 and 1994 flags, has not been involved in coaching at AFL level since a two-year stint as an assistant with Adelaide in 2005-06 under Neil Craig.
More recently Pyke has been pursuing business interests in Perth while coaching and mentoring on a part-time basis at Claremont in the WAFL.
Pyke said in a club statement the new coaching position was a great opportunity.
"After several years out of the AFL scene, I am really looking forward to working with Adam Simpson and the other coaches in maximising the output of the squad, which I think has real potential," Pyke said.
"It is nice to be back working at the club I played for as we prepare for the challenge to rebound after a disappointing season."
Eagles football manager Craig Vozzo said the club is ecstatic to have Pyke back on board.
"We're thrilled to welcome a club legend back into the fold and I think our players and coaching group will really benefit from Don's knowledge and expertise," Vozzo said in the club statement.
"Don has a unique range of skills and experience, bringing a wealth of knowledge to the table which will really complement our coaching structure."
