Josh Avis will coach Northern Jets this season.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The Jets completed the Farrer League coaching picture with the appointment of Avis on the weekend.
Avis has spent the past two seasons with the Jets and is looking forward to taking on the top job.
"It's a bit nervewracking but it's exciting at the same time," Avis said.
"I sat down with my wife and talked about it. She asked me if I would regret it if I didn't do it and without thinking, straight away I said yes. It would get to July and I'd be sitting there wanting to implement something but I wouldn't be able to do it.
"I love my footy, I'm passionate about my footy and this is a step towards keeping me in footy after I'm finished playing."
Avis, who is based at Forbes, has impressed the Jets with his leadership over the past two seasons.
He hails from Newcastle and played in two premierships with Newcastle City, including a best-on-ground performance as an 18-year-old.
He also represented Black Diamond League and played a handful of games with Sydney Swans' reserves.
Avis is no stranger to coaching, having led Parkes in 2016.
He is excited to do it at a bigger club this time around and has his sights set on finals.
"Andrew (Clark) and the committee have done a good job, they're looking to add more depth, which is good and what we need," he said.
"With slightly more depth, pushing into finals wouldn't be unachievable. I want to continue to build that positive culture that they've got here at the Jets and I'll be trying to get us to take that next step."
Northern Jets vice-president Andrew Clark believes Avis will make a good coach.
"The recruiting committee is pleased to have him on board as coach. We're very excited," Clark said.
"He's a guy who has always shown leadership. He will step up at half-time and say something if needed.
"Josh has been with us for a couple of years now and he gets along good with all the younger ones.
"He's got a good footy brain, he's been around a bit and hopefully he might be able to entice a few to come with him."
The Jets hope to announce an assistant coach shortly that will help Avis, given his location.
The Jets, who finished seventh last season, will begin pre-season training on Thursday at Ariah Park at 6.30pm.
Avis takes over from Mitch Haddrill, the Farrer League's Gerald Clear Medallist, who will stay on as a player.
READ MORE