Daniel Rich is getting a first-hand look at the coaching caper while he continues his rehabilitation from a full knee reconstruction.

Rich has taken it upon himself to get more ‘hands-on’ with the Lions Reserves side – an initiative that will help both his younger teammates and his own personal development.

For the past two weeks he has sat in the NEAFL coaches’ box alongside Reserves Coach Leigh Harding, Development Coach Mitch Hahn, and Innovation & Development Manager Gary O’Donnell, to experience the game from the other side of the fence.

Rich is already ahead of schedule with his recovery, so fans can expect him to become a more regular fixture at future NEAFL matches.

Harding believes the young Reserves side will benefit greatly from having someone like Rich to help guide them.

“He’s been handy in coaches’ box. He’s been in the box for the past two weeks, working mainly with the midfield group. He’ll do that for the rest of the year,” Harding said.

“He’s got a good knowledge of the game, and has the sort experience that can really help our young guys. I imagine Luke McGuane might be used in a similar role at some stage as well.”

Harding also said the experience would prove valuable for Rich, both in the more immediate and long-term future.

“It keeps him in the game. We’ve got a new game style, so by working closely with the group he can get his head around the types of terminology used and how things are done out on the field,” he said.

“He’s one of our leaders, and can learn from delivering messages to the guys.

“It might also help him in the future should he decide to coach down the track. But that’s still a good 8-10 years away for him.”