Hawthorn Assistant Coach Chris Newman says the benefit of adding stalwarts Brett Deledio and Andy Otten to the coaching staff go beyond their near-400 games worth of AFL experience.

Speaking on Sportsday Radio on Thursday, Newman said the challenges that both Deledio and Otten had faced throughout their playing careers would also enable their coaching ability.

“I think they’re both really good people first and foremost,” Newman said.

“They’ve both been through quite a lot in their lives and football careers, having to go through injuries and other adversity.

“There’s a really good story there for our younger guys and we’re really fortunate to have those guys in our football club.”

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A former number one draft pick, Deledio has experienced many of the highs that the game has to offer but also endured various struggles in the final four years of his career in which he managed just 43 games.

Meanwhile Otten’s 109-game tenure at Adelaide also saw him rupture his ACL on two occasions.

The level of resilience and work ethic that this builds within a player is a valuable coaching tool, according to Newman.

“Their development role is really important for the younger guys in particular who want to hone their craft.

“Obviously that added playing role can only solidify the relationship between them and the players because they’re out there and they’ll be able to experience what those players are experiencing.

“These two are really well-respected people and players within the AFL community so we’re looking forward to getting them into the place.”