Brett Deledio and Andy Otten join VFL club Box Hill Hawks as playing assistant coaches

Veteran Brett Deledio will continue his playing career in Victoria next season, returning to his home state after calling time on his AFL career.

Brett Deledio will continue his football career next year after signing with VFL club Box Hill as a playing assistant coach.

The 32-year-old retired from AFL after a 275-game career at the end of this season, which culminated in the two clubs he played for — Richmond and GWS — clashing in the Grand Final.

Deledio will be a part-time coach with Hawthorn as part of his new role.

Box Hill general manager Dan Napoli hailed Deledio’s signing as a coup for the club, which is based in Melbourne’s eastern suburbs.

“To attract and sign two guys that offer great leadership and experience to our line up is a fantastic coup for the club,” Napoli said.

“It’s pleasing to be able to inject some top end talent into our list heading into the 2020.

Box Hill Hawks have also signed former Adelaide Crow Andy Otten, who will serve as a second playing assistant.

Brett Deledio takes possession during his last season for GWS. Picture: Phil Hillyard.

Andy Otten bids farewell to Adelaide over after this year’s SANFL preliminary final. Picture: Sarah Reed.

The 30-year-old utility played 109 games during an 11-year stint with the Crows.

“We’ve got a young and exciting group who should really benefit from the knowledge and insight both Brett and Andy can offer,” Napoli said.

“We’re looking forward to seeing what they’ll bring in both and on-field and off-field capacity.”

The Herald Sun revealed on October 24 Deledio was in the running for a coaching role at Hawthorn.

Otten, his former teammate Richard Douglas and ex-Sydney defender Nick Smith had been others in the mix.

Box Hill finished eighth in the VFL this year.

Originally published as Brett Deledio and Andy Otten join VFL club Box Hill Hawks as playing assistant coaches