TENDAI Mzungu will make a football homecoming to Fremantle next season as the inaugural coach of the club's Next Generation Academy.
Mzungu has hung up the boots after playing four games for Greater Western Sydney this year and will return to the Dockers, where he played 102 matches, in an off-field capacity.
The 31-year-old will also be the team runner on match days in 2018.
Freo has identified 10 inductees from its Kimberley and metropolitan zones for the NGA, which targets indigenous and multicultural talent.
The inductees have been approved by the AFL as potential future draft concessions for Freo.
Mzungu, who has a BA in sports science and is completing a Diploma of Education, will work with the players developing their skills, and helping teach them about diet, strength and conditioning, and welfare.
"It’s just started now but I know there are plenty of talented kids that the club has their eye on," Mzungu said.
"My understanding is the role is only going to grow, so it’s great to be on board from the start.
"I’ve loved playing AFL football for the past seven years. I’m excited to get a new challenge and I’m really passionate about influencing the youth, so the role really fits that criteria.
"I’ll enjoy working with talented kids and giving them advice and guidance and support to hopefully, play AFL one day, much like I did."