Ian Evatt has bolstered his backroom team by appointing Sam Hird as First Team Coach.
The 33 year-old called time on his playing career at the end of last season where he represented Barrow.
The former defender spent two years at Holker Street where he played in 65 games for the Bluebirds.
Born in Doncaster, Hird began his youth career with Aston Villa and Leeds United before turning professional with the Yorkshire side in 2005.
During a 16-year professional career, he played in over 450 games for the likes of Doncaster Rovers, Grimsby Town and Chesterfield, where he played alongside Evatt, before hanging up his boots in Cumbria.
As well as coaching the first team, Hird will also take charge of the Bolton Wanderers Reserves side, who are set to feature in the Central League next season. More details of this will be announced in due course.
Speaking to bwfc.co.uk Hird said: “Coaching was something that always interested me as I went through my career.
“I played with the manager at Chesterfield and I was lucky enough to play at Barrow where we had a good group of lads and success under him and his staff.
“Halfway through last season I transitioned onto the staff side of things and when Rob Kelly took over early in the New Year he asked me to assist him. To keep Barrow in the Football League from when Rob took over - they were second from bottom – was a good learning curve for me.
“That stood me in good stead and then I got a call from Ian asking if I would like to join his staff as the first team coach.
“It was an easy decision for me to make. He’s built such a great culture at the football club and you can certainly see why they got promoted last season. It’s a great group of staff, great group of players and I’m really looking forward to coming in and helping to add to the success the club enjoyed last season.”
Wanderers Manager Ian Evatt added: “Firstly, Sam is a fantastic person and is someone who culturally fits into this environment.
“He’s a very knowledgeable person, understands the game and is a fantastic pro.
“As a young coach himself, he can connect with the players. He fits into that demographic of people that have a point to prove, people that are young and people that are trying to get somewhere in life and in football.
“He’s starting off on a new pathway and a new journey and we’re delighted to have him.
“He’s going to be a great asset for us.”
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