Former Fremantle utility Brady Grey has returned to Western Australia and the Peel Thunder after leaving his off-field role with Hawthorn last week.

Grey was recently appointed as Fremantle's development manager after leaving Waverley, having been the Hawks' Indigenous Player Development Manager and an assistant coach with their AFLW outfit.

A return to Perth has allowed Grey to move back home, where he will now be able to work through his role with the Dockers and balance playing duties with Peel - Fremantle's WAFL affiliate.

Grey was a constant feature for the Thunder throughout his five-year AFL career with the Dockers, where he amassed 21 appearances in the top flight.

"I am really excited to return to Peel Thunder next season. I was fortunate to be a part of this club for 5 years through my connection at Fremantle and I now can't wait to return as a Thunder player again," Grey told the club.

"I have watched with great interest this season and it is clear to see the club has a great blend of experience as well as some up and coming young guns that have really started to make their name in the WAFL competition.

PERTH, WESTERN AUSTRALIA - JUNE 04: Brady Grey of the Dockers celebrates after scoring a goal during the round 11 AFL match between the Fremantle Dockers and the Collingwood Magpies at Domain Stadium on June 4, 2017 in Perth, Australia. (Photo by Will Russell/AFL Media/Getty Images)

"The opportunity to play with these guys and work under Geoff Valentine and his coaching staff is something I am really looking forward to in season 2023 and beyond and I can't wait to keep building on what has already begun."

Grey, a Burnie Dockers product, also featured for West Coast's reserves and Perth in the WAFL before heading to Victoria to join Hawthorn.

Peel managed a fifth-placed finish in 2022 with a win-loss record of 11 and 7.