FREMANTLE has appointed Sydney Swans premiership player Brett Kirk as an assistant coach for the 2013 season.

Kirk, who was co-captain of the Swans' 2005 premiership team, worked with senior coach Ross Lyon and stoppages coach Mark Stone when both were at the Swans.

The courageous midfielder played 241 games for the Swans and was a key driver of the famous 'Bloods' culture before retiring at the end of the 2010 season.

He spent 2011 travelling the world as the AFL's international ambassador and said a two-year stint out of the system had helped him rediscover his passion for the competitive side of the game.

The 35-year-old is working with Channel Seven as a commentator this season and will join Fremantle in November.

“Football has always been a big part of who I am but I did need a mental break when I retired,” he said.

“Having two years away from the game allowed me to see footy from a different angle, but it did make me realise my strong desire to coach.

"I’m really excited to be joining the Fremantle Football Club.

“I can't wait to go on another journey with a group of people driven to get the best out of themselves.

“I have respect for Ross (Lyon) and the way the Freo Dockers are playing and I look forward to contributing once they finish their finals campaign."

Kirk made his debut in 1999 and played the last 200 games of his career without missing a match, winning All Australian selection in 2004 and the Swans' best and fairest in 2005 and 2007.