Former Collingwood coach Nathan Buckley is dipping his toes back into coaching, joining Geelong as an assistant to Chris Scott.
The Cats confirmed the move on Tuesday, with the 53-year-old to join the club's staff for 2026.
Significantly, the appointment could still pave the way for Buckley to become the inaugural coach of Tasmania, who are set to join the competition in 2028.
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Buckley hasn't coached since departing the Pies mid-way through the 2021 season.
He has since worked in several roles in the media, while consistently being linked with vacant coaching posts around the competition.
“We are excited to add Nathan to our club and more specifically to our coaching group,” Geelong football boss Andrew Mackie said.
“He is respected and highly regarded across the football industry and brings a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective
“In speaking with Nathan, it was clear he had a strong appetite to return to coaching, and we look forward to welcoming him to our football program to work closely with our players and staff.”
Buckley's addition to Scott's staff will help fill some of the gap left by Steven King, who has taken the head coaching role at Melbourne.
In response to Buckley's signing with Geelong, Tasmania released a statement, suggesting things remained on track for the former Magpies star to lead them in the AFL.
"Tasmania Football Club acknowledges and congratulates Nathan Buckley on his appointment to Geelong Football Club," the club statement read.
"It is great to see individuals of Nathan's calibre back coaching and if he wishes to coach at AFL level again we see this as a very positive step."