With rivals clambering for his signature, the star second rower yesterday ended the fierce debate by re-signing with Brothers for 2013.

New Brothers co-coach Adam Vanzanten later revealed Dunn was "convinced" the decision would provide a step forward in his football career.

Vanzanten said yesterday he was "extremely excited" to have Blake and Brock Dunn on the Brothers list again.

"It's tremendous for us," Vanzanten said.

"It means we have the nucleus of the side from last season and Blake was such a big part."

Vanzanten admitted it had taken some persuasive talking to get the Dunns back on board.

"Blake said he wanted the best for his football," Vanzanten said.

"We had a meeting, a conversation, about the plans for next year and Blake was convinced this was the best place for him."

In retaining Blake and Brock Dunn, the Brethren have headed off counter bids and set the foundation for a revival next year.

One of the most skilful ball-players in bush football, Blake Dunn coached Brothers for three years before stepping down last month.

Vanzanten said the aim was to steer Brothers back to the top after two years of miserable results.

"I certainly believe we can improve," he said.

"It's going to take a lot of hard work and we will have to change the mindset of some people."

A fresh approach to off-season and pre-season training is the centrepiece of the Perry-Vanzanten plan.

Perry has called on former Canterbury Bulldogs teammate and fitness guru Tony Grimaldi to get the players in shape for the 2013 campaign.

Vanzanten said the Brethren had eyes for a "two or three recruits" to complement the acquisition of Gundagai winger Matt Ward and the re-signing of the Dunn brothers.

He is also confident rookie halfback Luke Barry will flourish under Perry's tutelage, particularly with his directional play.

"Luke's a great young player," Vanzanten said.