SAM Murray has been announced as Wangaratta Rovers' coach for the 2023 and 2024 seasons.

Daryn Cresswell announced two weeks ago that he wasn't the man to lead the Hawks next season, opening the door for long–time friend Murray to step into his shoes.

The former Collingwood player joined the Hawks in 2020, following Cresswell to the club.

The 24–year–old said he can't wait to take over the reins.

"Leadership is something that has come pretty natural to me," Murray said.

"I've been able to take on leadership roles at a few of the clubs I've played for so it's definitely something I enjoy doing.

"I didn't think coaching would come this quick but I'm grateful and excited to not only lead the footy club but also the town and its supporters.

"I'm just grateful the club considered someone of my age who doesn't have a book of experience."

Cresswell suggested to Rovers' officials that Murray may be a good candidate for the role with the club eventually approaching the star backman.

"'Crezza's' (Cresswell) such a good friend, he's family to me, so for him to put me forward to the club is really special," Murray said.

"I think I've achieved most things in footy that I've put my mind to, I've played league footy, won a senior flag and played will all of my brothers (Paddy, Nick and Toby) so I'm eager to do well with Rovers as a coach.

"I've learnt so much under 'Crezza' from his commitment to how important the community is so I think he's taught me a few good things."

Murray hopes to bring the professionalism of the AFL having played 13 games at the top flight.

"I've still got close ties in the AFL, my brother Nick is at Adelaide and I talk to him every day so I think I can bring a recent version of what happens at AFL level to the club," he said.

"You've now got myself, Ben Reid, Anthony Miles and Tim Broomhead who aren't long out of the AFL system leading O&M clubs next year which is exciting for the league."

With the Hawks still firmly in the premiership race, Murray doesn't believe his club needs much to take the next step in 2023.

"I'm really excited by the list, I don't think we need much," he said.

"We've got a good core group of 22–26 year–olds that I think can take a big step next year.

"We just need to find a bit more consistency which will come.

"There will be a few keys we'll target over the off–season but there won't be many."