Sydney premiership player Brett Kirk will join the Fremantle Dockers as an assistant coach for the 2013 season.

Kirk worked with Fremantle senior coach Ross Lyon and stoppages coach Mark Stone when both were at the Swans.

Widely regarded as one of the most courageous and resilient players to have ever pulled on the boots, he played 241 games for Sydney since making his debut in 1999, including the last 200 without missing a match.

Co-captain of the Swans from 2005-2010, Kirk is a highly decorated and respected figure, whose list of achievements include a 2005 AFL Premiership win, All-Australian selection in 2004 and Sydney best and fairest in 2005 and 2007.

In 2011, he spent six months travelling the world and spreading the word about football as the AFL's International Ambassador.

Kirk said a two year stint out of football helped him rediscover his passion for the competitive side of the game.

“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.”

Kirk said he was looking forward to beginning his commitments at Freo in November.

"I’m really excited to be joining the Fremantle Football Club,” he said.

“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."

Fremantle general manager of football Chris Bond said Kirk’s appointment was very pleasing for the club.

“Brett’s experience and knowledge as a player will hold him in good stead and we believe he’ll become a valuable member of our coaching team,” he said.

“In addition to his assistant coaching duties, Brett will also work with our midfield coaches.”