2008 Crichton Medallist David Hille has accepted a post with the GWS Giants, joining Adam Kingsley's staff as a part-time rucks coach.
After 197 games across 14 seasons at the top level, Hille, now 45 years of age, has been brought in to mentor the Giants emerging ruck stocks - stocks now far less experienced after the departure of Kieren Briggs.
Hille joins fellow former players Brett Burton and Adam Read in donning an orange and charcoal polo for first time this season.
Speaking after his first session with Kingsley's playing group, Hille expressed a joy in returning to an elite AFL environment.
“It's great to reconnect into footy after quite some time away,” Hille said.
“It's a really welcoming environment and I've really enjoyed my first day.
“What appeals to me the most is the opportunity to work with the young and energetic playing group and help these young kids.
“I've been really impressed with what I've seen today. They've come back in great condition and all have a positive attitude and I'm looking forward to working with them and seeing them progress over the coming months.”
Excited for this 👊 pic.twitter.com/YsLzwTle5x
— GWS GIANTS (@GWSGIANTS) November 13, 2026
Footy boss Jason McCartney is buoyed by the impact Hille can have on a new-look group, and more pertinently, a new-look ruck room.
“It's really exciting to welcome someone of David's calibre to the club and add him to our coaching group for 2027,” McCartney said.
“He was an elite player for a long period of time and has a great understanding of what it takes to succeed at AFL level and we're looking forward to seeing him work with our group and share that knowledge and experience.
“We have a really promising and talented group of young ruckmen, and David's expertise will be incredibly valuable in helping them continue to develop and prepare to perform at the highest level.
“Beyond his knowledge of the game, David is also a fantastic person and a tremendous leader, and we're confident he'll have a really positive influence on our playing group.
“With the addition of Adam Read, Ryan Burton and now David, we've got a great mix of continuity, fresh perspectives and new ideas within our coaching group and we're really excited about what those three can bring and what we can achieve together in 2027.”
