Recently retired Crows champion Ben Rutten has joined Richmond as an assistant coach.

Rutten, 31, pulled on the boots for the last time against St Kilda at Adelaide Oval in Round 23.

The All-Australian defender, who kicked three goals with his first three kicks in AFL, finished his decorated 229-game career in fairy tale fashion, recording a goal with his last kick.

The Tigers wasted no time in snapping up Rutten, who acted as a mentor and on-field coach for Adelaide’s inexperienced defence this season.

“We are very fortunate to have Ben at the Richmond Football Club, and we look forward to welcoming him to our coaching group,” said Richmond General Manager of Football, Dan Richardson.

“Ben’s playing achievements speak for themselves, and his leadership skills, knowledge of the game, and experience guiding Adelaide’s younger players, will hold him in good stead as he embarks on a coaching career.”

Rutten completed the “Next Coach” program, an elite coaching course run by David Wheadon, which nearly 50 league players have graduated from since its inception in 2009.