FORMER Gold Coast Suns vice-captain Nathan Bock and retired GWS Giants player Josh Hunt will spearhead a new-look Southport Sharks NEAFL side in 2015.

Sharks football manager Jason Cotter confirmed Bock had been appointed the head coach, while Hunt has been signed as a player and assistant coach.

He said both have signed 12-month contracts with the possibility of extensions.

media_camera Retired Giants player Josh Hunt will coach

“Both decided to reside on the Gold Coast for the next year and it was an opportunity we had to give a lot of consideration to,” Cotter said.

“The AFL experience and what those gentlemen achieved will provide strong guidance for the team.”

Bock played 140 AFL games for the Adelaide Crows and Gold Coast. He won the Adelaide best and fairest award and selection into the All Australian team during 2008.

He was the first player to sign with the Suns in 2011 but was hampered by injury in his four years at the club, playing just 27 career games.

Having never coached a side before, Bock admitted their may be some early jitters in his new role at Southport.

“I think there is always going to be nerves there whether you’re a player or a coach,” Bock said.

“It’s a new thing and I’m just embracing it and taking it with both hands.

“I feel like I had a coaching-style role the first few years and have really enjoyed teaching Sammy (Day), Steven May and Rory Thompson how to play the game at top level.”

The 31-year-old will replace former Sharks coach Matt Angus, who lasted just one season at the club. It was the worst campaign in the club’s 53-year history, with 10 wins and eight losses.

Cotter said while Hunt was a lock for the player-coaching role, it will be “wait and see” before they decide on letting Bock have a run on the field.