STAR former Western Bulldogs big man and 2013 All Australian Will Minson is North Melbourne's new ruck coach.

The 32-year-old retired at the end of the 2016 season after 191 games at the Bulldogs and spent this year away from football after turning down the chance to continue with Collingwood.

Minson started his new part-time role at Arden St on Friday and will oversee the Kangaroos' strong ruck division, including 2015 All Australian Todd Goldstein, Braydon Preuss, Majak Daw and Tom Jeffries.

He replaces former North champion Alex 'Russian' Ishchenko, with director of coaching Darren Crocker – who was originally going to look after the ruckmen – now in charge of the midfield.

Goldstein, who is hoping to return to his heady heights next year after a tough 2017 campaign, endorsed his former rival's appointment.

"It's great to have someone like Will, who is fresh out of the game," Goldstein told NMFC.com.au.

"We had 'Russian' for a number of years and he was absolutely outstanding for me but now, to get a new face in and some new perspectives and ideas, is really exciting.

"I think he'll be able to help me add some more strings to my bow."

Jeffries has officially joined North as a category B rookie after rejecting the chance to sign with an Australian Super Rugby club and a rowing scholarship in the United States.

He played seven VFL development league matches this year.

Goldstein said Minson was his greatest opponent during his best years from 2012 to 2014. He also played in three straight preliminary finals between 2008 and 2010.

"Will's got the runs on the board and I'm looking forward to learning a lot from him," Goldstein said.

"He was tough to play against. When he was at his peak, there was none better.

"His physical strength, combined with his ability to impact and move around the ground, was by far the best in the competition … I learned a hell of a lot from him as an opponent."

North's general manager of football Cam Joyce was thrilled to welcome Minson to the club.

"Will was a formidable ruckman in his prime and will be an asset for the club and our rucks," Joyce said.

"We're excited about what he'll bring to the table."