FORMER rugby league international Mark Elia is set to take up the reins as Junee coach, as the Diesels hunt for their first premiership in 24 years.

Elia will end his longstanding association with Cootamundra, to pursue the coaching role in Junee.

While the contract remains unsigned, Elia yesterday revealed he had "agreed to terms" with the Diesels on Sunday.

"On Sunday I met with Junee and agreed to terms, but I haven't signed as yet," he said. "I hadn't been hearing anything from Cootamundra and I have the opportunity to continue coaching with Junee."

Elia has been with Cootamundra on-and-off for the last 13 years, and the decision to part ways with the Bulldogs was not taken lightly.

The former New Zealand and Samoan star admitted the decision to accept the post with the Diesels was a mixture of both his feelings and those of the Cootamundra committee.

"It is a bit of both," Elia said.

"This is a new challenge for me.

"Basically it is a privilege to be coaching first grade anywhere, especially at a time when it is becoming more and more competitive.

"It is a little bit disappointing to be leaving Cootamundra after the side we have been building has so much potential, but the committee is looking in another direction.

"It looks like Cootamundra and I are heading in different ways."

Elia has worked on building a solid playing foundation in Cootamundra, and was yesterday adamant there was dangerous potential at the club for the coming season.

"We had been working on bringing the right players for the past two years," he said.

"This year looking at the team, it could have been a top side, but you have to make decisions quickly and take your opportunities while they are there."

When questioned about the depth of talent he would encounter at Junee, Elia was quick to agree the Diesels could be a formidable force in the hunt for an elusive premiership.