ADELAIDE hopes James Podsiadly's career as a forward will help teach the Crows' backmen how to stop the League's most dangerous sharpshooters next year.

Podsiadly forged a memorable career with both Geelong and the Crows, booting 195 goals in 104 games and winning 2011 premiership as a key forward with the Cats.

He spent much of his final season at West Lakes as a utility-type player, swinging back in the SANFL to great effect before retiring last month.

Head of football David Noble said the 34-year-old's versatility would translate well as a line coach.

"In essence it's now that ability to teach the defence how to play more like a forward, in anticipation of where the ball's going to come in and how you actually gather those intercept marks and create offence as a result of strong defence," Noble said of Podsiadly.

"What he can bring is some key position development, some of that real craft of forward and back.

"The package he brings is really good."

Noble said the Club had always hoped Podsiadly, who played 21 games in two seasons for the Crows, would remain at West Lakes after retirement.

“When you bring good people into your organisation, you want to retain them for as long as you can because they add to your environment and help you grow,” Noble said. 

“There was always that discussion (about Podsiadly staying at the Club) whether that was the leadership component, in strength and conditioning, which he had some interest in … or coaching.

“Luckily for us, he decided to come here initially and play, but it was always the plan that we saw him long-term staying in an area of the footy program.”

Podsiadly was the final addition to Don Pyke’s 2016 coaching group following the appointment of Central District premiership captain Paul Thomas in a development role last week.

Scott Camporeale will resume his position as midfield coach. David Teague will remain as forward line coach, while Matthew Clarke will oversee the rucks.

Thomas (defence), Ryan O’Keefe (midfield) and Tate Kaesler (forward) will form the development coaching group headed up again by Heath Younie.

Noble was happy with the mix of personalities and skillsets within the group.

“Scott did a fantastic job (as interim coach this year) and is an experienced campaigner now,” Noble said.

“David Teague has coached his own side and been at three AFL clubs. Matty Clarke has been around awhile and, now, we bring some freshness through James into that AFL group.

“James has been working really hard, particularly, this year on mentoring (and being a) coach behind the scenes … it’s almost been like a 12-month apprenticeship.

“To bring someone like Paul Thomas onboard and give someone from the SANFL an opportunity, we think is a great investment.”