Byrne and Haydn Cowled have been announced as Bulldogs co-coaches for 2020.

Coming off a poor year for the club, who only scored one victory, Byrne is looking to make Cootamundra much more competitive.

"We're not looking too far ahead as far as finals or anything goes but we want to make sure the club keeps moving forward," Byrne said.

"It's not just in first grade but the whole club."

Byrne coached the Bulldogs alongside Grant Boyd in 2011 before taking the role solo in 2012 and was back at the helm alongside Luke Berkrey in 2015.

He worked alongside Glen Buttriss when the Bulldogs finished fifth in 2018 before hanging up the boots.

However it didn't stick but Byrne spent the majority of the season in reserve grade or playing rugby union.

The 33-year-old expects his latest foray into coaching will be in a playing role.

"If we have a strong enough side I won't bother playing but I can't see that being the case so I'll probably play," he said.

Joining him in the coaching role is the reigning Les Boyd Medal winner.

Cowled played the first four games of the season with Young, but made a big impact in his return.

Byrne believes his leadership qualities will be a good attribute to the side.

"He's got some good leadership qualities, has a good attitude towards his footy and prepares well and trains hard so he's going to be a good leader," he said.

"Hopefully I can pass on a bit of experience to him."

The pair replace Chris Maher and Matt Forsyth.

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Forsyth is heading to Shellharbour but is the only confirmed departure for the Bulldogs.

Byrne is hoping to add some new faces into the side to slot in alongside the young team.

"At the moment it's not about unrealistic expectations of our first grade side but just to keep the young guys developing and also trying to find a few guys to help make the team competitive again," he said.

"It's not much fun getting beaten every week so if we can attract three or four guys to make the team competitive again."

Byrne was one of the new faces on the Group Nine board this season but has already indicated he won't be standing for re-election due to his Bulldogs commitments.

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