Schuster, who will be a playing coach, joined the Gorillas in 2018, while next year will be Stapleton’s first year at Cec Glenholmes Oval – as the pair will take over from Aaron Henry, two guided the club to two finals campaigns under his leadership.

“Coaching is something I have always wanted to do and I couldn’t ask for a better opportunity than doing it alongside one of my good mates Stapo [Stapleton],” Schuster said.

“Also, the opportunity to work with all the amazing young talent coming through at this club really appealed to me.

“For example, last year we had seven juniors under the age of 19 playing for us at the end of the year, which is something to be really proud of and something I want to be apart of.”

One thing the pair will bring to the role will be experience, with Schuster having played first grade Group Seven footy for 14 years, including 260 games for Shellharbour, including a couple of season alongside Stapleton.

While Stapleton has had stints at NRL clubs St George, St George Illawarra, Parramatta, Penrith, Cronulla-Sutherland and South Sydney, as well as a number of clubs in England.

“We will both offer a lot of experience and push to get the best out of our players,” Schuster said.

“On top of that, we will have a never say die attitude and a will to win.

“We will also offer a lot of help and guidance to the young up and coming players of the club.

“We want a family orientated club, rebuild a good positive image for the club and hopefully gain a few sponsorships along the way.”

Despite all that playing experience, this will mark the first time either has coached at this level.

“This job will be both our first coaching role – it’s going to be a learning curve,” Schuster said.

“We will take bits and pieces of what we have both learnt over the years and create our own style.

“I’m sure we will have some ups and downs and different opinions on things throughout the year but it’s how we react and work together that will determine our success.

“Craig and I have known each other for a long time and both been very similar on thoughts towards football – so I’m sure it’s going to work.”

While the Gorillas have been known for their physical style in recent years, Schuster admits their plan next year will determine the players on their roster.

“Until we have locked in what players will be at the club next year, we won’t be able to determine what style we will play,” he said.

“Which won’t be too far off last year's approach, as in hard and aggressive with a bit more attacking flare – I can’t wait to get started.”