TATONG has received a major boost ahead of the end of the season by signing current skipper and star midfielder Andrew James as coach for next season.
James, who will take over the reins from his father Steve, has signed a two-year deal with the Magpies, tying him to the club until the end of the 2013 season.
The inspirational midfielder said he was both excited and nervous about the prospect of coaching his own side but added the people at the club would make it easier.
"I'm really looking forward to it," he said.
"I'm excited but at the same time I'm a little bit nervous.
"I thought I might as well stick around and try and do my bit in keeping the side and the club moving forward.
"But they're a great bunch of blokes out there and we have already re-signed about three quarters of them."
After starting his career with the Wangaratta Rovers, James moved to Tarrawingee where he was a major part of the Bulldogs' 2007 premiership side.
But with the introduction of the former Benalla and District Football League teams into the competition, James followed his father to the Magpies where he immediately took up a major position in the new club.
James said coaching was always something he had thought about but didn't think he would get the chance with the Bulldogs.
"One of the reasons I left Tarra was because I didn't think I would get the opportunities (to coach)," he said.
"Mick (Wilson) had good assistants and I guess I felt a little intimidated voicing my opinions to them.
"Going to Tatong I was able to get more influence on team selection and that sort of thing.
"So when the job came up I jumped at it."
BY - JEREMY WILSON.
IN CHARGE: Andrew James
Last Modified on 17/08/2011 23:05