Former AFL premiership-winning captain Luke Hodge has been unveiled as the Brisbane's new mentoring coach.
Hawthorn great Hodge, 35, drew the curtain on his stellar 346 game career when the Lions bowed out of the 2019 AFL title race, losing by three points to Greater Western Sydney in September's classic semi-final at the Gabba.
But the four-time premiership winner for the Hawks - including three as captain - has not been lost to Brisbane, as they look to build on their breakout season by retaining him on the Lions' staff.
Two-time Norm Smith Medallist Hodge said he hoped to provide a guiding hand to Brisbane's player list as they strived to back up from their stunning 2019 turnaround.
Hodge - who ended his 18-year career with 41 games for Brisbane - said he would offer leadership advice as well as mentor emerging players in Brisbane.
"My family and I have loved our time in Brisbane and are looking forward to staying here next year," Hodge said in a statement.
"I'm excited about my role at the Lions and believe the club has really progressed over the past couple of seasons.
"I'm looking forward to seeing what's ahead."
Hodge came out of retirement to link with Brisbane coach and former Hawthorn general manager Chris Fagan in 2018, helping the Lions reach the finals for the first time in a decade after a stunning second-placed finish in the regular season.
Australian Associated Press
