Wilson replaces Lee Fraser, who’s now overseeing the six regional outfits, including the Bushies, in the TAC Cup’s under 18 competition.

“I’ve been with the Bluearth Foundation for 11 years, which performs charity work with young people, in and around health and well-being,” Wilson said.

“This is a segway into working with young people, and I’m pretty pumped about it, it’s something I’m really passionate about.”

The 47-year-old was one of 30 applicants.

“Obviously he has a strong football background, so Mick comes with strong football credibility,” Fraser said.

“He has the ability to lead and bring people along with him.”

Wilson played 316 games for Wangaratta Rovers between 1987 and 2003, winning four premierships.

He then coached the O&M under 15 schoolboys for two years, combining that stint with a three-year coaching role with the O&M senior team.

When the league meets Goulburn Valley, they play for the Ash-Wilson trophy.

Wilson then coached Tarrawingee to two titles, and has spent the past six years filling a variety of volunteer roles, including match-day running duties for Rovers’ reserve grade.

“I’m really interested in giving youngsters a grounding in sport and life,” he said.

“It’s about them becoming good leaders and role models, and giving them life skills to be able to put back into either their local community or any community they’re involved in.”

Wilson will start with the Bushies on January 23, as they look to bounce back following their grand final loss.