Between fielding media calls about his appointment on Thursday morning, German was engrossed in his favourite past-time as historian of home club Oak Park.

“I’m actually trying to find a photo of Ronny Montgomery to put up in our rooms as a former AFL player,” German said.

“He played a game for North.

“He’s an old Oak Park boy.”

While Montgomery has more than occasionally let it slip that he played a game for North Melbourne in 1972, German’s passion for the sport is far less known in Ovens and Murray circles.

Since watching Albury defeat Yarrawonga at Mulwala in round one, the long-time AFL, VFL and WAFA coach has soaked up as much knowledge as possible on the competition.

“I’m keen to learn not only the history of Albury Tigers but the history of the competition in general,” he said.

“Once you get to know me I’m really passionate about football and the actual betterment of football.

“My favourite part of the world is Bright and going through Myrtleford I’ve always kept an eye on them.”

German, who was sounded out by Corowa-Rutherglen last season through a connection of John Longmire, will be a spectactor at Albury’s clash with North Albury at Albury Sportsground on Saturday.

“I’m coming up this weekend to get more of a feel of it,” he said.

“It’s not about judging anyone or anything like that.

“The most important thing for me is to respect the coaches and what everyone’s doing at the moment.

“They are in an important part of the season.

“I’ll just take it all in and start to take some mental notes.”

The former Hawthorn, West Coast, Fremantle and Western Bulldogs assistant’s introduction to the Ovens and Murray will be made significantly easier by Shaun Daly and Chris Hyde’s decision to stay on as players.

“The more I coach the more I realise how important it is to have experienced, quality leaders,” he said.

“And obviously they have helped build that culture.”