The former Sydney Swans and St Kilda star will line up for the Bulldogs against Chiltern on May 14.

Schneider played for his home club Osborne against Jindera in April and has also made appearances in the Riverina for Barellan and Coolamon in recent weeks.

The 2005 premiership player said he had “loved giving a bit back to the country” before he turns his attention to playing for Beaumaris in Melbourne.

“I’ve really enjoyed it. I really wanted to put the emphasis on junior footy, everywhere I’ve been I’ve wanted to get involved in the junior side of it,” he said.

“I remember when I was a junior, if an AFL or an ex-AFL player came out it was something I never forgot.

“It was great to to do that with my brother and a few good mates at Osborne, it was something I wanted to do for 14 years since I left.

“I’m good mates with Jayden Kotzur so he’s twisted my arm to go up there and have a kick at Thurgoona.”

There could be plenty riding on the clash for the Bulldogs, who sit 2-3 and face undefeated ladder-leader Rutherglen on Saturday.

Thurgoona co-coach Jamarl O’Sullivan said he couldn’t wait to welcome the 228-game AFL veteran into the Bulldogs team.

“I’m a Swannies man so I have very fond memories of him in the 2005 grand final. He can do whatever he wants, even if he doesn’t get a kick I’ll be happy,” O’Sullivan said, only half-jokingly.

“I’ve got my Swannies guernsey ready for him to sign.

“On a serious note, though, it’s exciting and it’s something for everyone involved with the club to get excited about.

“You’re always looking for things to mix up the year so hopefully this gives the young guys a great experience and a bit of a buzz.”

O’Sullivan said the Bulldogs would host a dinner and sportsman’s night following the match against Chiltern before a “jampacked weekend at the club” concluded with a family day on Sunday, May 15.