The final addition to Brad Scott's coaching team at the beginning of 2010, Lappin joined John Lamont in a development role nurturing the club's youngsters.

Lappin spent two years with Wodonga in the Ovens and Murray Football League and two more with Coburg in the VFL before joining Wangaratta as a playing assistant coach in 2002. After winning four best and fairest awards as a player, he coached the club to flags in 2007 and 2008.

Lappin will work with North Ballarat's aligned players this season.