Robbie Stockdale has been appointed the new Head of Youth at Blue Square Bet Premier new boys Grimsby Town.
He takes over from Adam Smith, who stood in when Neil Woods was appointed first-team manager last November.
Stockdale brings with him a wealth of experience having played under Glenn Hoddle, Terry Venables, Berti Vogts, Bryan Robson and Steve McClaren during a thirteen-year career.
The 30-year-old is not ready to hand up his boots yet either, he will continue to be registered as a Grimsby player for the forthcoming season.
Stockdale explained how the job offer came about: "Neil and the rest of the staff have seen me coaching with the School of Excellence and Neil's asked me to do the job.
"It's an important role and I feel very proud to have been asked to do the job.
"It's something I always wanted to get in to. I've always loved the game and I hope I can bring my experience in to what is another chapter in my life.
"Coaching and possibly getting into management is something that has always interested me. I got my badges quite early in my career and I'm now looking forward to it."
He will meet up with his new charges on Wednesday when the youth team report back for pre-season training.
