FORMER Carlton coach Brendon Bolton has returned to Hawthorn to take up a role as director of coaching.

Bolton was sacked from the senior coaching job at the Blues at the start of June after 77 games, winning just 16.

He had previously spent nearly seven years at the Hawks, leading VFL side Box Hill from the end of 2008 to 2010, before being appointed an assistant coach with the AFL side, until taking up the Carlton job in late 2015.

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Bolton also led the Hawks in five matches in 2014 while senior coach Alastair Clarkson was hospitalised and diagnosed with Guillain–Barré syndrome.

"I'm really eager to return to Hawthorn and take on my next challenge," Bolton said.

"I return to the Hawks with a wealth of new experiences, learning and knowledge and I'm really excited about the opportunity to help Hawthorn improve.

"My love of football is as strong as ever and the chance to work with the Hawks' coaching group is something that really excites me.

"Hawthorn feels like home for me and my family, and we are incredibly happy to be back in the brown and gold."

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The Hawks did not have anyone in a senior/management coaching role this year, with now-Lions coach Chris Fagan previously filling the job of head of coaching and development until his departure at the end of 2016.

"Bolts is a quality character and we are thrilled to have him back at the Hawks," Clarkson said.

Brendon Bolton led Carlton to just 16 wins from 77 matches. Picture: AFL Photos



"In his time at Hawthorn, he displayed a fantastic ability to build strong relationships with the playing and coaching groups, and his teaching background enables him to excel in assisting people with their development.

"Having the opportunity to be a senior coach, 'Bolts' has gained invaluable experience and knowledge that will help us in taking our coaching group to that next level.

"We look forward to having Brendon, wife Louisa and their children Ned and Rosie back at Hawthorn."