The Gold Coast SUNS have finalised their coaching structure for 2015 with the appointment of Matthew Lappin as development coach.

Lappin has spent the past four years as forwards coach at the Collingwood Football Club, where he forged a strong relationship with Gold Coast’s new senior coach Rodney Eade.

He played 251 games for St Kilda and Carlton, earning himself All Australia honours in 2001, 2005 and 2006.

Lappin's appointment to Gold Coast’s coaching staff follows the recent change of role for Ashley Prescott from development to assistant coach.

General Manager of Football Operations - Marcus Ashcroft, welcomed Lappin to the GC SUNS.

“We are really pleased to confirm Matthew Lappin will join our coaching team in Season 2015 as Development Coach,” Ashcroft said.

“Matthew brings with him a wealth of experience, having coached for seven years at two of the code’s biggest football clubs in Carlton and Collingwood.

“We’re looking forward to having Matthew assist in the delivery of our development program.”

Lappin will commence his role with the GC SUNS on Monday (17 November).