Cleary co-coached with Kade Brown this year as the Bulldogs finished eighth in a Tallangatta league season cut short by COVID.

Since joining Thurgoona in 2009, he has coached the club's thirds and won a premiership with the reserves.

He then spent two years coaching Brock-Burrum's reserves, winning a flag with the Saints in 2019.

"Dan has a passion for developing our younger players and is eager to promote a family inclusive culture in and around the club," a Bulldogs statement said.

Thurgoona's pre-season starts on Monday night.

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