Martiniello will take over from Luke Morgan who stepped down after six years at the helm to join Ovens and Murray club Wangaratta.

The midfielder brought up 150 matches for Benalla this year and was awarded life membership.

“He’s always had aspirations to coach and helped out the under-18s this season,” club president Lloyd Johnson said.

“We think he’ll do a good job.”

Martiniello, a son of club legend John, was Benalla’s premiership captain in 2015 and has served as a board member.

He has also had stints with Myrtleford and Murray Bushrangers.