Matthew Kreuzer's influence at Carlton will continue into the future after the much-loved figure's appointment as the AFL club's ruck coach.
Kreuzer played 189 games for the Blues over 13 seasons after being selected as the No.1 draft pick in 2007.
But he struggled with injuries throughout his career and was forced into retirement when a foot problem in round one ruined his 2020 campaign.
The 31-year-old will work closely with Marc Pittonet and emerging ruckman Tom De Koning in his new role.
"I loved my 13 years playing in the navy blue guernsey and to now have the chance to help the next generation come through is a great opportunity," Kreuzer said.
"I want this club to have the ultimate success and to still be able to play a role in helping us achieve that is an opportunity I am looking forward to and can't wait to get to work when pre-season begins."
Carlton football boss Brad Lloyd welcomed the appointment.
"There are few people over the last decade who embody what it means to be a Carlton player and person more than Matthew," Lloyd said.
"To have someone of his experience and knowledge, not just of the game but of our club, mentoring the next generation of Carlton ruckmen coming through, it is a perfect fit.
"A real focus for us is developing the players already on our list to ensure they get the most out of their ability, and with the development program we now have in place we feel we are well placed as a football club to achieve that."
Carlton are hopeful of playing finals next year for the first time since 2013 after a big trade period that netted Adam Saad from Essendon and Greater Western Sydney's Zac Williams.
