FC Bendigo has announced that former Bendigo player Steve Martin will be the club’s inaugural head coach ahead of the National Premier Leagues 2014.

Steve Martin, who was captain of State League 1 side Sunshine George Cross in 2013, has over 15 years of experience playing at the highest levels in Victoria, including a run with Carlton in the old National Soccer League.

FC Bendigo Operations Manager, Brock Rogers, said he was excited by the appointment.

“Steve is the only player to have come from Bendigo to play in the National Soccer League, he brings a lot of experience, which will be invaluable for our young squad," Rogers said.

“Ever since the announcement of the NPL, and Bendigo’s interest, Steve has been committed and passionate about the cause”.

Steve Martin said he was excited about the prospect of playing in front of his hometown.

“I had to leave Bendigo young to pursue my professional playing career, but I am keen for the opportunity to finally put back into the game locally," Martin said.

“The NPL is a fantastic opportunity for our local talent to develop their skills whilst remaining in the community. I wish I had the same opportunities when I was growing up” said Martin.

Steve Martin will be helped by experienced Victorian Premier League coach, Franz Weimper, who will join FC Bendigo as an assistant coach.

“To have someone with the experience of Franz on board will be a huge benefit to not only the players, but also to Steve Martin," Rogers said.

“Franz has been apart of a number of success teams, and I am sure he will be able to provide some great insight into what it takes to be successful both on and off the field."

FC Bendigo has completed the key coaching appointments by securing local Academy and Skills Acquisition Program (SAP) coach, Nick Mammone, to the role of technical director.

“Nick has been in charge of the local junior development programs for the last three to four years, including the Academy and SAP coach, and the success we have had at the level, can be in some way contributed back to his passion and enthusiasm for the sport and junior development," Rogers said.

“Nick recently attended a national B-Licence coaching course, which will put him in a strong position to successfully complete the role with FC Bendigo."

The Under 20 FC Bendigo team will be coached by local identity Heath Trathen, who will be an exciting addition to the coaching staff with his experience at both local and state level.

FC Bendigo will play its first ever NPL 1 match on Saturday March 15 against Avondale Heights, with its first home match against Moreland Zebras on Saturday April 5.